Immediate Effects of DLPFC tDCS on Attention Bias

A Pilot Study of the Immediate Effects of DLPFC tDCS on Attention Bias in Depression

This research is being done to test if the investigators can modify or reduce negative attention bias in depression following a single session of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) over the left anodal dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) in patients with mild to severe depression. The study will consist of a single-session tDCS session administered onsite at the Johns Hopkins University (JHU). After the consent process, participants will complete the study (approximately one hour in duration) with the guidance of a research associate.

This prospective pilot study will recruit 25 female participants, ages 18-45 (inclusive), with mild to severe depression (based on BDI-II score range 14-19 for mild and 29-63 for severe) to determine if a single-session of tDCS can alter negative attention bias. The primary objective is to study if single-session tDCS will affect attention bias in depression and is not meant to treat depression. Subjects may or may not be receiving treatment for mild-severe depression.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged 18-45
• Female
• Mild to severe depression (determined by BDI-II scores of 14-19 and 29-63, respectively)
• If taking antidepressants, medication must be stable ≥ 30 days prior to screening

Exclusion Criteria:

• Wide-Range Achievement Test-Fourth Edition (WRAT-4) Reading Subtest standard score <85 (to ensure understanding of test procedures)
• Insufficient visual and motor ability to operate the intervention and assessments as judged by treating neurologist or study staff
• Primary psychiatric disorder other than depression (based on MINI)
• Primary neurologic condition that would prevent ability to participate (as determined by study clinician).
• History of head trauma in the last year
• Medical device implants in the head or neck
• History or current uncontrolled seizure disorder
• Current substance abuse disorder
• Pregnant or lactating women
• Skin disorder/sensitive skin near stimulation locations