How brain stimulation affects motor learning

Interaction of Motor Learning with Transcranial Direct Current - Efficacy and Mechanisms

['FUNDING_R01'] · CITY COLLEGE OF NEW YORK · NIH-10990986

This study is looking at how a gentle electrical stimulation technique called tDCS can help improve motor skills, and it involves both people and rats to see how different levels of stimulation and tasks work together to boost learning.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCITY COLLEGE OF NEW YORK (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10990986 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on motor learning by examining how different intensities of stimulation and specific behavioral tasks interact. The study will involve both human participants and rat models to explore the mechanisms behind motor learning and the effectiveness of tDCS. By using advanced electrode designs, the research aims to enhance the stimulation effects on the motor cortex, potentially leading to improved learning outcomes. The findings could clarify how to optimize tDCS for therapeutic applications in motor skill development.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation would include individuals with motor learning difficulties or neurological impairments.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have motor learning challenges or neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective therapies for improving motor skills in patients with neurological conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with tDCS in enhancing motor learning, but this approach aims to refine and expand upon those findings.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.