Slow Wave Induction by Propofol to Eliminate Depression (SWIPED) Stage II

Description

Depression in older adults is a leading cause of disability, excess mortality from suicide, and dementia. Cognitive problems and sleep disturbances are common, contributing to recurrence and poor long-term outcomes. Disrupted slow-wave sleep is at the nexus of depression and cognitive dysfunction in older adults. Novel approaches to target this core pathophysiology are lacking. This mechanistic project is designed to elucidate the relationships between TRD and sleep disturbances in older adults. Through personalized infusions targeting electroencephalographic (EEG) patterns, the investigators aim for a systematic characterization of the relationships between the propofol (dose and EEG measures) and enhancement of slow wave sleep, with associated secondary clinical and cognitive outcomes. Through the re-purposing of propofol as a therapeutic probe, this innovative proposal will establish whether EEG slow waves are a viable therapeutic target for novel antidepressant approaches.

Two BBTI sessions will be administered before the propofol infusions, with two additional sessions within 6 weeks after the 2nd infusion. The sessions will completed remotely or in person.

Propofol will be infused through a peripheral IV, with the assistance of target-controlled infusion software and pumps, with an anticipated infusion duration of 2 hours. Concurrent high-density EEG will be acquired. Participants will be discharged home after nurse monitoring and fulfillment of post-anesthetic care unit criteria.

Patients will be instructed by staff on the operation of the SOMNOmedics HST for at-home overnight sleep EEG recordings. Patients will demonstrate the ability to successfully wear the device and initiate recordings without assistance. The device, charger, tablet, and instructional materials will be provided to patients.

Overnight sleep recordings will be obtained prior to the first propofol infusion and on evenings of propofol infusions. Additionally, recordings will be obtained for up to 6 weeks after the final infusion, to evaluate persistence of restoration of sleep architecture.

Primary endpoints will be analyzed based on age, sex, time separating propofol infusions, induction of EEG measures during infusions, pharmacokinetic exposure times at varying concentrations, adherence to BBTI, and concomitant medications.