Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the most effective method of treating severe depression. It has been used in clinical practice for over 80 years, but the mechanisms behind the antidepressant effect and the cognitive side effects remain unclear. The main purpose of the project is to illuminate these mechanisms. This can be achieved by combining the latest techniques of magnetic resonance (MR) that provide insight into the effect of ECT on the structure and function of the brain.
We expect that a better understanding of the mechanisms will increase the chance of:
- Find biomarkers for good ECT response so that treatment can be prescribed more purposefully
- Improve ECT stimulation technique with better efficiency and fewer side effects as a result
- Reduce the stigma associated with the method
The target group is patients treated with ECT due to severe depression.
Foundations that supports the project:  
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