Exploring how brain stimulation affects memory in Alzheimer's disease models
Official title: Imaging the effects of transcranial alternatingcurrent stimulation in an experimental model of Alzheimer's Disease
Funded at Sunnybrook Research Institute · NIH-11040293 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a gentle brain stimulation technique called tACS might help improve memory and brain activity in people with Alzheimer's disease, and it's designed to be safe and comfortable for long-term use.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Sunnybrook Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Toronto, Canada) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $546,676 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG084681-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11040293 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with early-stage Alzheimer's disease or those at risk of developing it.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those with other forms of dementia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) on brain activity and memory in a model of Alzheimer's disease. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to understand how different frequencies of tACS can influence neuronal oscillations and neurotransmission, which are critical for working memory. The approach is non-invasive and designed to be well-tolerated, making it suitable for long-term application in conditions like Alzheimer's. The goal is to identify biomarkers that can predict how well individuals respond to this type of brain stimulation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new non-invasive treatments that improve memory function in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with tACS in improving cognitive functions in both healthy elderly individuals and Alzheimer's patients, indicating a potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Sunnybrook Research Institute
Toronto, Canada Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stefanovic, Bojana — Sunnybrook Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Stefanovic, Bojana
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.