NCT06735885 · Stanford University
fMRI Neurofeedback With Matter Neuroscience App
What this study is about
Study will utilize an app, Matter Neuroscience, designed to help users with depression understand positive emotions and the neurotransmitters that create them. We hope to learn the safety and effectiveness of neurofeedback for treating depression and lay the groundwork for a pivotal clinical trial.
View original scientific description
Study will utilize an app, Matter Neuroscience, designed to help users with depression understand positive emotions and the neurotransmitters that create them. We hope to learn the safety and efficacy of neurofeedback for treating depression and lay the groundwork for a pivotal clinical trial.
Interventions
DEVICE
Matter Neuroscience App
An iPhone smartphone application
OTHER
Stock Photos
Stock Photos
OTHER
No Home Training
No Home Training
OTHER
Personal Photos
Personal Photos
OTHER
Home Training
Home Training
Primary outcome measures
Determine the safety and efficacy of neurofeedback for treating depression through MADRS scale changes
Time frame: Screening, Baseline, Immediate Post, One Month Post, Three Month and Optional Six Month
Determine the safety and efficacy of neurofeedback for treating depression through MADRS (Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale) scale changes. The 9-item self-report version of the MADRS has an overall score range from 0-27, with higher scores corresponding to higher levels of depression.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Male or Female, between the ages of 18 and 80 at the time of screening.
- Primary diagnosis of nonpsychotic major depressive disorder (MDD) without a history of psychotic features.
- Score on the MADRS scale between 15-25
- Able to read, understand, and provide written, dated informed consent prior to screening. Proficiency in English sufficient to complete questionnaires / follow instructions during fMRI. Stated willingness to comply with all study procedures, including availability for the duration of the study, and to communicate with study personnel about adverse events and other clinically important information.
- Must possess an iPhone with the latest iOS version compatible with the app or must be willing to use a loaner iPhone from the study if available.
- Has had at least one lifetime antidepressant treatment failure (ATHF)
- The dose of the primary antidepressant medication (if applicable) must be stable for 4 weeks prior to baseline, and participants must agree to continue at this dose throughout the study period.
- In good general health, as evidenced by medical history and determined by study physician
- For women of reproductive potential: agree to the use of highly effective contraception during study participation.
- Adequate visual acuity (with or without corrective lenses) to view study materials while in the MRI.
- Agreement to adhere to Lifestyle Considerations throughout study duration.
Exclusion criteria
- Contraindication to MRI (ferromagnetic metal in their body)
- Severe claustrophobia
- Women that are pregnant or breastfeeding or with a positive urine pregnancy test at participation, or who are planning to become pregnant during the study period.
- Primary psychiatric condition other than MDD requiring treatment except stable comorbid anxiety disorder
- History of or current psychotic disorder, schizophrenia, psychosis, bipolar disorder, or severe borderline personality disorder.
- Diagnosis of intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, or other neurodevelopmental disorder.
- Current moderate or severe substance use disorder or demonstrating signs of acute substance withdrawal
- Urine screening test positive for recent use of recreational drugs except for marijuana..
- Considered at significant risk for suicide during the course of the study.
- Recent (within 4 weeks of any clinical effect) or concurrent use of rapid acting antidepressant agent (i.e., a course of ECT or TMS). Excluding ketamine.
- History of significant neurologic disease, including dementia, Parkinson's or Huntington's disease, brain tumor, seizure disorder, subdural hematoma, multiple sclerosis, or history of significant head trauma as determined by the PD.
- Untreated or insufficiently treated endocrine or metabolic disorder.
- Any other condition deemed by the PD to interfere with the study or increase risk to the participant
- Alexithymia as determined by the Toronto Alexithymia Scale
- Treatment with an investigational drug or other intervention within the study period.
- Not currently in a major depressive episode as defined by the MINI.
- More than 5 lifetime adequate antidepressant medication failures (ATHF).
Where
- Stanford, California
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jul 6, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations