New study validates the biological mechanism of action of Deprexis in treating depression

A newly-published randomized controlled trial (RCT) has demonstrated that Deprexis, a digital therapeutic for depression with already extensive clinical validation, shows enhanced effectiveness when used alongside transcranial infrared laser stimulation (TILS).

This trial, conducted by neuroscientists at the University of Texas at Austin and published in Biological Psychiatry Global Open Science, adds to the growing body of evidence supporting Deprexis’ biological mode of action.

The study found that patients receiving both Deprexis and TILS experienced an even larger symptom reduction compared to the already highly significant symptom reduction amongst those receiving Deprexis alone, suggesting a synergistic effect on improving depression.

TILS is a non-invasive technique that targets the right prefrontal cortex, enhancing energy metabolism and oxygenation in brain areas critical for cognitive control and emotional regulation.

The study revealed that the increased neuroplasticity and metabolic activity induced by TILS allowed for a more pronounced engagement of the neural pathways targeted by Deprexis. This supports the notion that Deprexis has a physiological mode of action, actively modulating brain circuits involved in emotion regulation and cognitive control.

“Deprexis has been backed by over 15 clinical trials, meta-analyses and real-world studies, consistently demonstrating robust effects on depressive symptoms across diverse patient populations," said Mario Weiss, chief executive and founder of GAIA.

"This trial provides further confirmation that Deprexis doesn’t just support mental health behaviorally—it has a tangible biological impact.” 

Dr Weiss emphasized that these findings offer compelling biological evidence of Deprexis’ scientifically validated mode of action as a digital therapy.