Noninvasive brain stimulation for language and memory in Alzheimer's-related aphasia
Targeting language-specific and executive-control networks with transcranial direct current stimulation in aphasic AD
This project uses gentle electrical brain stimulation together with speech therapy to help people with the language form of Alzheimer's (logopenic PPA) improve speaking and short-term memory.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11178329 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would receive noninvasive transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) that targets both language-specific and executive-control brain networks while doing speech-language therapy tasks. The team combines this neuromodulation with therapy because prior work at this site showed tDCS can boost naming and spelling when added to speech therapy. This project specifically focuses on people whose aphasia is caused by Alzheimer pathology (PPA-AD) and aims to address verbal short-term memory problems that worsen language. Treatments are given over multiple sessions with sham (placebo) comparisons and follow-up testing to track language and cognitive changes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people diagnosed with the logopenic variant of primary progressive aphasia linked to Alzheimer pathology who have measurable language and short-term verbal memory impairments and can attend repeated clinic visits.
Not a fit: People with other PPA subtypes, non-Alzheimer causes of aphasia, severe cognitive or medical conditions that prevent participation, or contraindications to tDCS may not benefit or be eligible.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the approach could improve everyday communication and slow language decline for people with logopenic PPA due to Alzheimer disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous double-blind, sham-controlled trials have shown that tDCS can enhance naming and spelling when added to speech therapy in PPA, but applying it specifically to memory-related networks in PPA-AD is a newer approach.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tsapkini, Kyrana — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Tsapkini, Kyrana
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.