pBFS-Guided rTMS Therapy Over Different Targets for Treatment-Resistant Depression

Stimulation of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex(DLPFC) and ventromedial prefrontal cortex (DMPFC) as target sites for rTMS intervention in depressive disorders has shown some therapeutic efficacy. However, overall patient response rates remain suboptimal, partly because the prefrontal cortex is a large region encompassing multiple functional networks. Analyses suggest that targeting different targets within the dorsolateral and ventromedial prefrontal cortex for intervention in depressive disorder patients may activate distinct functional networks. Therefore, selecting appropriate targets within the prefrontal cortex that accurately modulate the functional networks involved in depressive disorder patients is crucial for achieving effective clinical outcomes. Fox et al. have demonstrated that clinical response and individualized target sites in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex are associated with functional connectivity to the subgenual cingulate cortex (sgACC). However, some analyses have indicated that rTMS target sites based solely on minimal sgACC connectivity may not be optimal for all depressive symptoms. Therefore, identifying individualized stimulation targets that improve core symptoms in depressed patients is important for achieving more effective personalized treatment of depressive disorders. This study aims to explore the efficacy and safety of rTMS interventions targeting 40 prefrontal cortex sites in depressive disorder patients and functional imaging-based mechanisms for optimal stimulation targets. After being informed about the study and potential risks. All patients giving written informed consent will undergo a screening period to determine eligibility for study entry. At week 0, patients who meet the eligibility requirements will be assigned a random intervention target from 40 prefrontal cortex sites. Then all participants will undergo a 14-day rTMS modulation and a week follow-up visit. Participants will keep a stable treatment regime during treatment and follow-up.