Functional and structural effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for the treatment of adolescent depression

Motivation: Depression in adolescents is a significant mental health concern, and while transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has shown promise, its impact on brain structure and function in this population remains poorly understood. Goal(s): To investigate the brain structural and functional changes after TMS treatment in adolescent depression. Approach: Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI) data were collected to assess alterations in white matter structure and cortical intrinsic connectivity before and after TMS treatment. Results: Preliminary findings suggest that stable white matter structure, with significant changes in functional connectivity, offering valuable insights for treatment strategies. Impact: We identified brain regions potentially associated with the therapeutic effects of TMS in adolescent depression, which could potentially may inform more precise and targeted interventions.