Depression Remote Research Study
Researchers at the Grossman School of Medicine are conducting a study to test if noninvasive brain stimulation can improve heart rate variability in people with mild to moderate depression, aiming to develop an at-home treatment platform guided by heart rate data.
Fast Facts
Ages 18-65
Currently Have Mild To Moderate Depression
Not Currently Taking Antidepressants
Compensation Provided
Conducted Remotely
Study Background
HRV-Guided tDCS: Integrating a Biomarker for Clinical Utility
This research study is testing a new, non-invasive method for measuring heart rate (HR) using a headset designed for transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Participants with mild to moderate depression will use this device at home for 10 daily sessions, during which their heart rate will be monitored both through the headset and a standard chest strap. The goal is to see if this new method can reliably measure heart rate and explore whether changes in heart rate variability (HRV) could be used as an indicator of depression.
The study will take place remotely over about one month, with participants completing around 12 sessions via Zoom. They will fill out questionnaires, record heart rate data, and use the tDCS device from the comfort of their own homes. The researchers aim to develop a future at-home treatment platform that uses heart rate data to guide depression treatment, potentially offering a more personalized approach to care.
Study Background
HRV-Guided tDCS: Integrating a Biomarker for Clinical Utility
This research study is testing a new, non-invasive method for measuring heart rate (HR) using a headset designed for transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Participants with mild to moderate depression will use this device at home for 10 daily sessions, during which their heart rate will be monitored both through the headset and a standard chest strap. The goal is to see if this new method can reliably measure heart rate and explore whether changes in heart rate variability (HRV) could be used as an indicator of depression.
The study will take place remotely over about one month, with participants completing around 12 sessions via Zoom. They will fill out questionnaires, record heart rate data, and use the tDCS device from the comfort of their own homes. The researchers aim to develop a future at-home treatment platform that uses heart rate data to guide depression treatment, potentially offering a more personalized approach to care.
Additional Information
This study is being done to test a new, non-invasive way to measure heart rate using a headset and see if changes in heart rate variability can be used as a marker for depression. The goal is to develop an at-home treatment platform that uses this data to guide depression care.
You may qualify for a study if you meet the following criteria:
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 18-65
- Currently have mild to moderate depression
Exclusion Criteria:
- Currently taking antidepressants
- History of traumatic brain injury (TBI) or seizures
- Currently taking antipsychotic, anxiolytic, or stimulant medications
- Currently pregnant or breastfeeding
- Use of pacemaker or implantable devices
If you participate in this study, here’s what you can expect:
Screening: You’ll have a 30-minute remote screening session with a study clinician to see if you’re eligible.
Device Training & First Session: You’ll have a 2-hour remote visit to learn how to use the tDCS device and begin your first session.
Daily Sessions: You’ll complete 10 daily tDCS sessions, each lasting 40 minutes, from the comfort of your home.
End-of-Treatment Assessment: After finishing the 10 sessions, you’ll have a remote assessment to review your progress.
Follow-Up: Two weeks later, you’ll have a final remote follow-up assessment.
Note: All necessary study equipment will be shipped to you for use at home.
Participants can earn up to $300 for completing all study visits and procedures.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.