NIRS for Depression

(NIRSIT Trial)

This trial tests a new approach called NIRSIT, which measures blood oxygen levels in the brain to better diagnose and understand depression. The goal is to determine if this method can accurately identify the symptoms and severity of Major Depressive Disorder. The trial includes two groups: one with individuals who have depression and another with non-depressed individuals. Participants should either have a diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder and be receiving treatment, or have no depression or other major mental health issues. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research that could enhance depression diagnosis and treatment.

The trial does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, since it involves patients already receiving clinical therapy for depression, it seems likely that you can continue your current treatment.

Research has shown that NIRSIT, a type of brain scan, is generally safe for people. Studies indicate it can help monitor brain activity linked to depression. These studies report no harmful side effects from using NIRSIT. It measures brain oxygen levels to understand emotions and stress, aiding in diagnosing depression. This technology doesn't require medication or invasive procedures. Instead, it uses light to scan the brain, similar to how a pulse oximeter measures blood oxygen. Overall, past research has noted that NIRSIT is well-tolerated, with no major safety concerns.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about NIRSIT for depression because it offers a unique approach by using near-infrared spectroscopy to measure brain activity. Unlike typical treatments like antidepressants and therapy, which focus on altering chemical balances or behavior, NIRSIT targets brain blood oxygenation, providing insights into brain function in real-time. This method could lead to more personalized treatment plans by identifying how depressed and non-depressed brains differ in their oxygen usage, potentially enhancing the effectiveness of existing therapies.

Research shows that Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) can help diagnose and monitor Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Studies have found that NIRS effectively measures brain activity linked to depression symptoms. In this trial, participants will undergo NIRSIT testing to measure frontal blood oxygenation. This tool, called functional NIRS, has predicted how well patients might respond to depression treatment. It is non-invasive, meaning it doesn't involve surgery or entering the body, and it provides clear data on brain function. Early results suggest that NIRS could become a reliable way to assess and track the severity of depression.²³⁶⁷⁸