Using brain stimulation to improve function in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Neuromodulation of brain network function in preclinical and prodromal Alzheimer's Disease
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10829909 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a treatment called repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) might help improve brain function in people with Alzheimer's disease and those at risk for it, by boosting brain connections and possibly easing some symptoms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $210,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG080588-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10829909 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include older adults diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those showing early signs of cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can change brain network activity in individuals with Alzheimer's disease and those at risk for it. By applying rTMS, the study aims to enhance brain plasticity and potentially alleviate symptoms associated with Alzheimer's. The research will explore the effects of rTMS on brain connectivity, particularly focusing on the default mode network, which is often disrupted in Alzheimer's patients. Participants will be monitored to understand how these changes may differ between healthy aging and Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new non-invasive treatments that improve cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with rTMS in healthy older adults, but this specific application in Alzheimer's disease is still being explored.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Touroutoglou, Alexandra — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Touroutoglou, Alexandra
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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.