Eye cell responses as a possible predictor of magnetic stimulation results in treatment-resistant depression
Studies whether eye cells predict response to magnetic stimulation in adults with treatment-resistant depression.
Plain-language title generated from the registry record
Registry title: ipRGC as a Potential Biomarker for Predicting Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Treatment Response in Major Depressive Disorder
Key facts
- Where
- Porto, PortugalSee 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 65 years old?
Source: NCT07474974, who can take part
Where in Portugal
- RISE-Health, Center for Translational Health and Medical Biotechnology Research (TBIO), School of Health, Polytechnic of PortoPorto, PortugalTaking 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
- Polytechnic Institute of Porto
- Trial code
- NCT07474974
- Record updated
- 13 October 2026
- Original description
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.Read full original descriptionShow less
Illuminating Depression: ipRGC as a Potential Biomarker for Predicting Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Treatment Response in Major Depressive Disorder
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.
Inclusion: Diagnosis of MDD, confirmed via the structured clinical interview; TRD type; Age between 18-65 years; Visual acuity of 20/32 or better.
Exclusion: Prior rTMS treatment; Use of medications affecting iris mechanics or the autonomic nervous system; Psychiatric disorders other than MDD; Systemic diseases affecting the eyes (e.g., diabetes mellitus); Ocular conditions; Neurodegenerative diseases; Major neurological illnesses; Contraindications for TMS; Head injuries causing loss of consciousness; Current or past alcohol/substance dependence within 6 months.