Improving language recovery in stroke survivors with aphasia

Precision Neuromodulation in Post-Stroke Aphasia

NIH-funded research Medical College of Wisconsin · NIH-11114762

This study is exploring a new way to help stroke survivors with aphasia improve their language skills by using a special therapy combined with brain stimulation, and it's designed for people looking to regain their communication abilities after a stroke.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMedical College of Wisconsin NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Milwaukee, United States)
Project IDNIH-11114762 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a new approach to enhance language recovery in stroke survivors who experience aphasia, a condition that severely impacts communication. The study combines a specific therapy called semantic feature analysis (SFA) with a technique known as theta burst stimulation (TBS), which uses magnetic pulses to stimulate brain activity. By applying TBS before therapy, the researchers aim to increase the brain's responsiveness, potentially leading to better outcomes in language skills. Participants will undergo assessments to identify the most effective brain stimulation sites to maximize the benefits of the therapy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults who have experienced a stroke and are currently facing challenges with language and communication due to aphasia.

Not a fit: Patients who have not had a stroke or those whose aphasia is not related to a stroke may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve language recovery and quality of life for stroke survivors with aphasia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results using similar neuromodulation techniques to enhance rehabilitation outcomes, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Milwaukee, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.