Strengthening brain connections in schizophrenia
White Matter Plasticity in Schizophrenia
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE · NIH-11251226
Adults with schizophrenia will learn a musical video-game task to find out whether learning can change brain wiring and help thinking and coordination.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11251226 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would learn a short musical skill using a video-game-style mock instrument that requires eye–hand coordination and listening. MRI scans using Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) and other brain imaging will be done before and after the training to look for changes in white matter, the brain wiring that links different regions. Clinical tests of thinking, hearing, and coordination will be done alongside imaging to see whether brain changes relate to improvements in cognition and daily function. The study compares each person’s brain scans and test results before and after the brief training period.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults aged 21 and older with a diagnosis of schizophrenia who can attend in-person sessions, use a game controller, and safely have MRI scans are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People under 21, those who cannot tolerate MRI (for example, due to metal implants or severe claustrophobia), or those unable to participate in the training sessions may not benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could point to new learning-based therapies that strengthen brain connections and improve thinking and daily functioning for people with schizophrenia.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies in healthy adults have shown that learning new skills can change white matter, but applying this approach in schizophrenia is relatively new and experimental.
Where this research is happening
BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE — BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CHIAPPELLI, JOSHUA — UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE
- Study coordinator: CHIAPPELLI, JOSHUA
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.