Investigating how brain stimulation affects memory and cognition
Using Direct Brain Stimulation to Study Cognitive Electrophysiology
This study is looking for 250 volunteers to help us learn how brain stimulation can improve memory by seeing how it affects the way we remember things, with the goal of finding better ways to boost our thinking skills.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10654753 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to understand the neural dynamics involved in human memory by using direct brain stimulation as a tool. A multi-site consortium will collect data from 250 patient volunteers while they perform memory tasks, measuring brain activity through advanced techniques. The study will explore how stimulating specific brain areas can influence memory encoding and retrieval, and develop predictive models to enhance cognitive performance in real-time. By identifying causal biomarkers, the research seeks to establish effective stimulation strategies for improving cognitive function.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals with memory impairments or cognitive disorders who are willing to participate in brain stimulation experiments.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions that contraindicate brain stimulation or those who are not experiencing cognitive difficulties may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new methods for enhancing memory and cognitive function in patients with memory disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using brain stimulation to influence cognitive processes, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kahana, Michael Jacob — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Kahana, Michael Jacob
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 below.