Effects of mindfulness on brain functioning in depressed patients
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Investigating effects of mindfulness training on DMN connectivity and dynamics
IRAS ID
302310
Contact name
Jonathan Hamilton
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Surrey
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 11 months, 31 days
Research summary
Depression is a common disorder that often takes a recurrent or chronic course. Recent research has indicated that such courses are associated with significant changes in brain functioning including changes in strength of functional connectivity between regions of the default mode network, a large-scale brain network involved in spontaneous thinking and rumination, and the ability to suppress this network.
Training in mindfulness has been found to be an effective treatment for patients with recurrent and chronic courses of depression and there is evidence for beneficial effects on brain structure and functioning. However, it remains unclear whether and in how far the training may serve to reverse brain changes in recurrent and chronic courses of depression. The aim of this research is to test the effects of sustained training in mindfulness meditation on default mode network connectivity and suppression in patients suffering from recurrent or chronic depression.
We will invite currently depressed patients with a recurrent or chronic course of the disorder (N = 36) to take part in a 6-month mindfulness intervention and investigate changes in default-mode network connectivity and suppression over repeated assessments. Building on our previous research, the intervention will use a blended format that combines an online app offering psychoeducational materials and meditation guidance with brief individual therapy sessions delivered via videoconference. Eligible participants will be asked to complete questionnaires and take part in brain scans before the start of the treatment, 2 and 4 months after the start of the treatment and after the end of treatment.
REC name
London - Surrey Borders Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
21/LO/0828
Date of REC Opinion
26 Jan 2022
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion