Tests brain scan feedback training for depression in adults
Tests brain-scan neurofeedback training against sham feedback in adults with major depression.
Plain-language title generated from the registry record
Registry title: Amygdala Neurofeedback for Depression - Large Scale Clinical Trial
Key facts
- Where
- Pittsburgh, United StatesSee the site
Could this be for you?
Answer for yourself. This is not a decision: only the study team can say whether you can take part.
- Are you between 18 and 55 years old?
Source: NCT05703256, who can take part
Where in United States
- University of PittsburghPittsburgh, United StatesTaking people
Questions to ask the study team
- How often do I need to come in, and for how long each time?
- Are travel costs paid?
- Can I keep my own doctor?
- What happens if I want to stop?
Trial details
- Who runs it
- Kymberly Young
- Trial code
- NCT05703256
- Record updated
- 4 March 2026
- Original description
The goal of this study is to evaluate whether rtfMRI-nf training to increase the amygdala response to positive memories may serve as a stand-alone intervention for major depressive disorderRead full original descriptionShow less
Confirmatory Efficacy Randomized Clinical Trial of Amygdala Neurofeedback for Major Depressive Disorder
The goal of this study is to evaluate whether rtfMRI-nf training to increase the amygdala response to positive memories may serve as a stand-alone intervention for major depressive disorder
Inclusion: ages 18 - 55; primary diagnosis of MDD and are currently depressed; able to give written informed consent prior to participation; unmedicated OR are stable on an antidepressant regime (at least 4 weeks to ensure symptoms are stable). Effective medications will not be discontinued for the purposes of the study.
Exclusion: current (within 3 weeks of testing) use of any antipsychotics, anticonvulsants, stimulants, benzodiazepines, beta-blockers, or other medications (except antidepressants) likely to influence cerebral blood flow. Effective medications will not be discontinued for the purposes of the study; clinically significant or unstable cardiovascular, pulmonary, endocrine, neurological, gastrointestinal illness or unstable medical disorder; Current severe DSM-V alcohol or substance use disorder, with the exception of nicotine or caffeine. Clinician will access subjects' alcohol and substance use on a case-by-case to determine whether specific cases of mild or moderate alcohol or substance use would also interfere with the effects of the intervention; history of traumatic brain injury; diagnosis of psychotic or organic mental disorder, bipolar I or II disorder; unable to complete MRI scan due to claustrophobia or general MRI exclusions (e.g., shrapnel inside body); currently pregnant or breast feeding; unable to complete questionnaires written in English; eye problems or difficulties in corrected vision.