Circuit-Based Approach to Suicide: Biomarkers, Predictors, and Novel Therapeutics (NCT04130958) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedNot Applicable
Circuit-Based Approach to Suicide: Biomarkers, Predictors, and Novel Therapeutics
United States75 participantsStarted 2023-11-01
Plain-language summary
This neuroimaging study is a clinical trial investigating the effectiveness of intermittent theta-burst transcranial magnetic stimulation (iTBS-TMS) to the inferior parietal lobule (IPL) in reducing suicide risk in patients with major depressive episode (MDE) or borderline personality disorder (BPD).
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 65 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* 18-65 years of age
* Diagnosed with BPD or MDE
* Chief complaint of suicidal thoughts and behaviors
Exclusion Criteria:
* Neurological conditions with known structural brain lesion
* Prior neurosurgical procedure
* Metal in the body that is ferromagnetic or metal injury to the eyes
* Epilepsy
* Implanted pacemaker, medication pump, vagal stimulator, deep brain stimulator, TENS unit, or ventriculo-peritoneal shunt
* Psychopathology not appropriate for the treatment (e.g., manic episode or psychosis)
* Current alcohol dependence or active symptoms of non-alcohol psychoactive substance use withdrawal, as indicated by self-report
* Inability to meet the safety criteria for MRI scanning according to the protocols of the MGH Department of Radiology
* Current pregnancy
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Changes in Functional Connectivity of Key Nodes
Timeframe: Through Treatment Completion, Average of 3 Days