Restoring and retraining brain connections in adults
Re-Wiring the Human Brain
['FUNDING_R01'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-11323504
This project uses precise, non-invasive brain stimulation timed between two brain areas to strengthen or weaken specific connections in adults with stroke, traumatic brain injury, depression, or addiction.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11323504 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers are developing a non-invasive approach called cortico-cortical paired associative stimulation (ccPAS) that delivers precisely timed pulses to two brain areas to change how strongly they connect. The team will refine timing and targeting to encourage the brain to use alternate routes after structural injury or to correct maladaptive connectivity in psychiatric conditions. They will measure brain activity and behavior before and after stimulation to see if connectivity and symptoms change. The goal is to create safer, practical protocols that could be used in people to improve motor, cognitive, or mood outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults (21+) with altered brain connectivity such as from subcortical stroke, traumatic brain injury, or disorders like depression or addiction are the most likely candidates.
Not a fit: People under 21, those without connectivity-related brain problems, or individuals with contraindications to non-invasive brain stimulation (for example certain implanted devices) may not benefit or be eligible.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could restore more balanced brain network connections and improve movement, thinking, or mood for affected adults.
How similar studies have performed: Animal experiments and small human studies supporting spike timing-dependent plasticity provide encouraging early evidence, but larger clinical work on ccPAS in humans remains limited.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: RAIJ, TOMMI — MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: RAIJ, TOMMI
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.