Understanding how brain stimulation affects blood flow in the brain.

The mechanisms of cerebral microcirculation response to transcranial stimulation.

NIH-funded research Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute · NIH-10951932

This study is looking at how a gentle electrical stimulation on the scalp can affect blood flow in the brain, which might help improve treatments for different health conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionLovelace Biomedical Research Institute NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Albuquerque, United States)
Project IDNIH-10951932 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), a non-invasive technique that applies low-voltage electric currents to the scalp, on cerebral microcirculation. By examining how tACS influences blood flow and the underlying cellular mechanisms, the study aims to clarify the mixed results seen in previous research. The approach includes using advanced imaging techniques to observe changes in brain activity and blood flow in response to different stimulation parameters. This could lead to optimized stimulation protocols for various medical applications.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with neurological or psychiatric conditions who may benefit from non-invasive brain stimulation therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with severe neurological impairments or those who are not suitable for electrical stimulation techniques may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the effectiveness of brain stimulation therapies for conditions like depression, anxiety, and cognitive disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar brain stimulation techniques, indicating potential for significant advancements in understanding and treatment.

Where this research is happening

Albuquerque, 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.