Exploring the Cortical Hemodynamic Response of Excitatory Brain Stimulation: a Pilot Study

Exploring the Cortical Hemodynamic Response of Excitatory Brain Stimulation: a Pilot Study

Intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS) is a promising treatment for major depressive disorder. However, fewer than 50% of patients show sufficient response. Therefore, the optimal treatment protocol is worth investigating. Recent studies show that the relationship between stimulation intensity and prefrontal hemodynamic response is not linear but in an inverse U-shape by exploring the hemodynamic changes before and after iTBS. Concurrent transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)/functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) setup allows the investigators to observe the prefrontal hemodynamic response during stimulation.

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of different intensities on brain activity during and after the stimulation using fNIRS.

Please refer to the full proposal

Inclusion Criteria:

• Right-handed

Exclusion Criteria:

• history of epilepsy, seizures, or convulsions
• current or past diagnosis of neurological disorders, such as head injuries, strokes, encephalitis, epilepsy, Parkinson's, or Alzheimer's
• current or past diagnosis of psychiatric disorders, such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, or autism
• with metal implants, such as a cochlear implant, neurostimulator, or cardiac pacemaker