Amygdala Neurofeedback for Depression
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
The purpose of this study is to determine the clinical efficacy of real-time functional magnetic resonance imaging neurofeedback (rtfMRI-nf) training to increase the amygdala's response to positive autobiographical memories in patients with depression who are considered treatment-resistant
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
You can continue taking your current SSRI antidepressant if it's stable for at least 3 weeks. However, you must stop taking any antipsychotics, anticonvulsants, stimulants, benzodiazepines, beta-blockers, or other medications that might affect brain blood flow at least 3 weeks before the trial.
Is Amygdala Neurofeedback safe for humans?
Research on real-time functional MRI neurofeedback (rtfMRI-NF) involving the amygdala has been conducted with healthy participants and those with a history of depression, showing that it can help regulate brain activity without reported safety issues. These studies suggest that the technique is generally safe for human use.12345
How is Amygdala Neurofeedback treatment different from other treatments for depression?
Amygdala Neurofeedback is unique because it uses real-time brain imaging to help individuals learn to control their brain activity, specifically targeting the amygdala, which is involved in emotional processing. This approach is different from traditional treatments like medication or talk therapy, as it directly trains the brain to improve emotional regulation and processing of positive information.25678
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Amygdala Neurofeedback for Depression?
Research shows that Amygdala Neurofeedback, which involves training the brain to respond more positively using real-time brain imaging, can help reduce symptoms of depression. Studies found that this treatment can improve emotional processing and increase brain connectivity, leading to better mood regulation in people with depression.258910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Kymberly Young, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Pittsburgh
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for right-handed adults aged 18-55 with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) who haven't improved after two SSRI treatments. Participants can be unmedicated or on a stable SSRI regimen, must experience anhedonia, and have difficulty recalling specific positive memories. Exclusions include other major psychiatric disorders, recent substance dependence, traumatic brain injury, MRI incompatibility (like claustrophobia), pregnancy, breastfeeding, non-English speakers, vision issues without correction, and certain unstable medical conditions.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive 5 sessions of real-time fMRI neurofeedback training over a 2-month period
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in amygdala activity and clinical symptoms after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Amygdala Neurofeedback
- Parietal Neurofeedback
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Kymberly Young
Lead Sponsor
University of Pittsburgh
Lead Sponsor
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Collaborator