Dr. Downar is a psychiatrist and neuroscientist at the University of Toronto. His research focuses on using neuroimaging to identify better targets rTMS across a wider range of conditions and on finding biomarkers to predict optimal treatment parameters for individual patients.
#67: Jonathan Downar – TMS for Depression: Towards a One-Day protocol
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Jonathan Downar, a psychiatrist and neuroscientist based in Toronto, renowned for his pioneering research in transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for depression. You may recognize him from his landmark work on the Three-D Trial, which helped establish intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS) as a rapid and effective alternative to standard repetitive TMS.
Recently, Jonathan has been pushing the boundaries of TMS with accelerated treatment protocols, including the One-D Study, which tested the feasibility of delivering an entire TMS course in a single day.
In our conversation, we explore his scientific journey, the future of brain stimulation, and his bold approach to innovation—what he calls “TMS in SpaceX mode.” We also discuss the vision for achieving a billion depression patient remissions in our lifetime.
Tune in for an inspiring and insightful discussion with one of the leaders in neuromodulation research.
Taha, Alaa; Horn, Andreas (2025). #67: Jonathan Downar – TMS for depression: Towards a One-Day protocol. figshare. Media. https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.28525424
Find below a link to the ONE-D study and its associated preprint:
https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-5679327/v1
