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Major Depressive Disorder pp 275–293Cite as

Clinical Application of Real-Time fMRI-Based Neurofeedback for Depression

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Part of the book series: Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology ((AEMB,volume 1305))

Abstract

Real-time functional magnetic resonance imaging-based neurofeedback (rt-fMRI NF) is a recent technique used to train self-regulation of circumscribed brain areas or networks. For clinical applications in depression, NF training targets brain areas with disturbed activation patterns, such as heightened reactivity of amygdala in response to negative stimuli, in order to normalize the neurophysiology and their behavioral correlates. Recent studies have targeted emotion processing areas such as the amygdala, the salience network, and top-down control areas such as the lateral prefrontal cortex. Different methods of rt-fMRI-based NF in depression, their potential for clinical improvement, and most recent advancements of this technology are discussed considering their role for future clinical applications. Initial findings of randomized controlled trials show promising results. However, for lasting treatment effects, clinical efficiency and optimal target regions, tasks, control conditions, and duration of training need to be established.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical School, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany

    Klaus Mathiak & Micha Keller

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  1. Klaus Mathiak
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  2. Micha Keller
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Correspondence to Klaus Mathiak .

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  1. Department of Psychiatry, Korea University Ansan Hospital, College of Medicine, Ansan, Korea (Republic of)

    Yong-Ku Kim

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Mathiak, K., Keller, M. (2021). Clinical Application of Real-Time fMRI-Based Neurofeedback for Depression. In: Kim, YK. (eds) Major Depressive Disorder. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, vol 1305. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-33-6044-0_15

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