Standardized EEG for multi-site biomarker-informed trials: Implementation in the Canadian Biomarker Integration Network in Depression

OBJECTIVES: To standardize EEG practices in research and facilitate the transition to multi-site biomarker-informed clinical trials, with the aim of enhancing the treatment of depression and other neuropsychiatric disorders. METHODS: This study details the approaches employed by the Canadian Biomarker Integration Network in Depression (CAN-BIND), a collaborative, multi-site network supported by the Ontario Brain Institute and Brain Canada, focused on enhancing depression care. To achieve our objective, we implemented strategies to reduce variability across CAN-BIND sites participating in EEG data collection. RESULTS: We implemented standardization solutions in three key areas: infrastructure, procedures, and toolboxes. As part of this initiative, we developed two novel toolboxes designed to automatically clean EEG data and ensure that high-quality standards are met prior to biomarker extraction, enhancing the homogeneity of collected EEG data. CONCLUSIONS: Achieving standardization of EEG procedures in multi-site studies is essential for the successful implementation of biomarker-informed clinical trials. SIGNIFICANCE: Our study offers comprehensive solutions for EEG practices across multiple sites, providing valuable insights and inspiration for establishing standardization approaches in collaborative neuroimaging efforts beyond depression research.