Closed-Loop Deep Brain Stimulation for Treatment-Resistant Bipolar Depression (NCT07127913) | Clinical Trial Compass
RecruitingNot Applicable
Closed-Loop Deep Brain Stimulation for Treatment-Resistant Bipolar Depression
United States10 participantsStarted 2025-07-16
Plain-language summary
Neurons are specialized types of cells that are responsible for carrying out the functions of the brain. Neurons communicate with electrical signals. In diseases such as major depression this electrical communication can go awry. One way to change brain function is using electrical stimulation to help alter the communication between groups of neurons in the brain.
The purpose of this study is to test a personalized approach to brain stimulation as an intervention for bipolar depression The study researchers will use a surgically implanted device to measure each individual's brain activity related to his/her depression. The researchers will then use small electrical impulses to alter that brain activity and measure whether these changes help reduce depression symptoms. This study is intended for patients with major depression whose symptoms have not been adequately treated with currently available therapies.
The device used in this study is called the NeuroPace Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS) System. It is currently FDA approved to treat patients with epilepsy. The study will test whether personalized responsive neurostimulation can safely and effectively treat bipolar depression.
Who can participate
Age range
22 Years – 70 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:
* Age 22-70
* Meet Diagnostic and Statistical Manual-V (DSM-V) diagnostic criteria for Bipolar II Disorder, with an episode of depression lasting at least 1 year that is treatment resistant as defined above, without a manic or hypomanic episode in the last 2 years; patients must be taking a mood stabilizer (lithium \>0.6 mEq/L or valproate \>350 mM/L), an atypical antipsychotic, or a combination of a mood stabilizer and an atypical antipsychotic for at least 2 weeks at a stable dosage before starting the study and must continue taking anti-manic medication throughout their participation in the study unless discontinuation is necessary because of patient safety/health considerations.
* Must have either failed ECT (it was effective but not tolerated due to side effects; it was effective, but patients could not achieve a sustained response), not been able to complete a course of ECT due to side effects, or have been medically advised to receive ECT and have been unwilling or unable to obtain ECT.
* Has MADRS score of \> 26 at two baseline visits
* Ability to complete repeated administrations of MDD rating scales.
* If patient is on a regimen of psychotropic medication, no changes in this regimen should be expected during the 4 weeks prior to entry into and the duration of the study.
* Willing and able to undergo invasive brain recording/stimulation study
* Willing and able to attend multiple research visits and perform at-home research protocol
* Willing and…
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
Change in Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) score
Timeframe: Administered twice at baseline and every 2 weeks for the 36-40 weeks of Stage 3