One-of-a-kind study to study efficacy of deep brain stimulation to treat depression
UAB researchers are involved in a new clinical trial to explore a promising treatment for adults suffering from major depressive disorder, especially for those who have not been successfully treated after trying four or more antidepressants. The study involves researchers from the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology and the Department of Neurosurgery.
The study, titled “Treatment ResistAnt Depression Subcallosal CingulatE Network DBS,” or “TRANSCEND” for short, involves technology utilizing deep brain stimulation (DBS), which works by sending gentle electrical pulses to a part of the brain linked to mood regulation. This area, known as the subcallosal cingulate, has shown potential in helping people with severe depression.