Project Summary

Margaret O'Connor, Ph.D. (Young Investigator 2002) of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, is studying medication-resistant Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).  Some of these patients benefit from either repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).  Previously Dr. O'Connor demonstrated that though ECT had a more positive effect on mood than rTMS, ECT was associated with persistent adverse side effects relevant to memory consolidation.  Dr. O'Connor will attempt to demonstrate that material learned near the time of ECT treatment will be disrupted, whereas material learned three days earlier will be more secure.  She does not expect rTMS to affect memory.  This study will offer important information on possible ECT side effects to patients with MDD considering ECT and will also increase knowledge of the temporal aspects of human memory.

Program Area: MOOD DISORDERS\Depression (Unipolar)\Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

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