Investigating the impact of electroconvulsive therapy on brain networks and sleep: an observational study protocol.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a highly effective treatment for refractory depression, but it may also cause cognitive side effects. Despite decades of use, the mechanisms by which ECT exerts both its antidepressant and cognitive effects are still poorly understood, with the latter substantially limiting referral and adherence to therapy. ECT induces changes in correlated neural activity-functional connectivity-across various brain networks, which may underlie both its clinical efficacy and associated cognitive side effects. Electroencephalography (EEG) could address these knowledge gaps by identifying biomarkers that predict therapeutic outcomes or cognitive side effects. Such developments could ultimately improve patient selection and adherence. Such markers like

SUBMITTER: Kafashan M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11891538 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature