AI Breakthrough for Depression: Japan Approves New Brain Scan Device

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A new medical device that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to objectively detect mental illnesses such as depression through brain imaging has received regulatory approval in Japan. The announcement was made on June 30 by a research team that includes the Advanced Telecommunications Research Institute International (ATR). The device is expected to support more accurate diagnoses and lead to more effective treatment.

To develop the system, the team collected resting-state brain activity data from around 700 individuals, including both patients diagnosed with depression and healthy participants. Based on this data, they trained an AI model to identify distinctive patterns of brain activity associated with depression. The system is reportedly capable of detecting depression with approximately 70% accuracy.

From Imaging to Diagnosis

For diagnosis, the device uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a technology widely available in Japan. It records brain activity over a period of about ten minutes. AI then analyzes the imaging data, and doctors use the results to support their clinical assessments.

Until now, depression has primarily been diagnosed through patient interviews, with doctors relying on self-reported symptoms. However, many patients see non-specialist physicians, which can lead to inaccurate or delayed diagnoses.

The newly developed device is being introduced under a two-step approval system. Once safety and other basic criteria are met, the device can be used in clinical settings while further evidence of its effectiveness is gathered. This recent approval represents the first step. The team plans to apply for the second-stage approval as early as spring 2026, with the goal of obtaining coverage under Japan's public health insurance system by fiscal year 2027.

Expanding the Scope of AI-Based Psychiatry

In addition to diagnosing depression, the research team has developed technology to differentiate between subtypes of the disorder using brain imaging. These subtypes often require different forms of treatment, making accurate classification essential. The team aims to bring this technology into practical use within the next three years.

"We're seeing many cases among people in their prime working years," said ATR's lead researcher, Yuki Sakai. "This technology could also have a positive impact on the healthcare economy."

The team is also working to expand the scope of their research beyond depression. They are developing AI tools to quantify and detect other mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorder. Ultimately, they hope to create a system capable of identifying multiple psychiatric disorders from a single brain scan.

SEEKING HELP? If you are in Japan and having trouble with mental health due to workplace harassment, bullying, or for any other reason, someone is ready to help you in English at TELL Japan. Telephone (free dial inside Japan) 0800-300-8355. If you are outside of Japan, please check your national health authorities for guidance in your country.