NCT07474974 ipRGC as a Potential Biomarker for Predicting Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Treatment Response in Major Depressive Disorder
| NCT ID | NCT07474974 |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Phase | — |
| Sponsor | Polytechnic Institute of Porto |
| Condition | Depression - Major Depressive Disorder |
| Study Type | INTERVENTIONAL |
| Enrollment | 44 participants |
| Start Date | 2026-03-15 |
| Primary Completion | 2027-04-30 |
Eligibility & Interventions
Eligibility Fast-Check
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What to Expect as a Participant
You will actively receive the study intervention — which may be a drug, biologic, device, or procedure.
This trial targets 44 participants in total. It began in 2026-03-15 with a primary completion date of 2027-04-30.
⚠ This information is for research awareness only. Always consult your physician before joining any clinical trial. Participation is voluntary and you may withdraw at any time.
Brief Summary
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.
Eligibility Criteria
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.
Contact & Investigator
Catarina C Mateus, PhD
STUDY DIRECTOR
Polytechnic Institute of Porto
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join the NCT07474974 clinical trial?
This trial is open to participants of all sexes, aged 18 Years or older, up to 65 Years, studying Depression - Major Depressive Disorder. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria are listed in the Eligibility Criteria section. Always confirm your eligibility with the research team before applying.
Is NCT07474974 currently recruiting?
Yes, NCT07474974 is actively recruiting participants. Contact the research team at idp@ess.ipp.pt for enrollment information.
Where is the NCT07474974 trial being conducted?
This trial is being conducted at Porto, Portugal.
Who is sponsoring the NCT07474974 clinical trial?
NCT07474974 is sponsored by Polytechnic Institute of Porto. The principal investigator is Catarina C Mateus, PhD at Polytechnic Institute of Porto. The trial plans to enroll 44 participants.
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