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Sponsor: Polytechnic Institute of Porto
Conditions: Depression - Major Depressive Disorder, Treatment Resistant Depression
Interventions: Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS)
Countries: Portugal
This research explores the potential of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), particularly intrinsically photosensitive RGCs (ipRGCs), as biomarkers for predicting response to transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in treatment-resistant depression (TRD). We also aim to assess the impact of TMS treatment on RGCs and ipRGCs in TRD patients, investigating associations with clinical improvements and cognitive status. A clinical trial involving 44 patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) will be conducted. All participants will receive rTMS targeting the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). Data will be collected pre- and post-intervention, as well as at a 2-month follow-up, using multiple outcome measures, including the post-illumination pupil response (PIPR). The project seeks to confirm the effectiveness of TMS and the potential of RGCs/ipRGCs as predictors of treatment response, thereby facilitating the development of personalized treatment strategies for TRD patients undergoing rTMS therapy.
Sex: ALL
Age: 18 Years to 65 Years
Healthy volunteers: No
Study type: INTERVENTIONAL
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of MDD, confirmed via the structured clinical interview; * TRD type; * Age between 18-65 years; * Visual acuity of 20/32 or better. Exclusion Criteria: * Prior rTMS treatment; * Contraindications for TMS; * Psychiatric disorders other than MDD; * Systemic diseases affecting the eyes (e.g., diabetes mellitus); * Ocular conditions; * Head injuries causing loss of consciousness; * Current or past alcohol/substance dependence within 6 months; * Neurodegenerative diseases; * Major neurological illnesses; * Use of medications affecting iris mechanics or the autonomic nervous system.
- Porto, Porto District, Portugal