Using deep brain stimulation to help reduce smoking in people with schizophrenia

Deep rTMS modulating insula synaptic density and smoking behavior in schizophrenia

NIH-funded research State University New York Stony Brook · NIH-10710181

This study is looking at whether a special treatment called deep repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS) can help people with schizophrenia who smoke by changing how their brains work and helping them cut down on smoking.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionState University New York Stony Brook NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stony Brook, United States)
Project IDNIH-10710181 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how deep repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS) can help patients with schizophrenia who smoke. It aims to understand if this treatment can change brain connections and reduce smoking behavior. By targeting specific areas of the brain, the study seeks to explore the neurobiological mechanisms behind smoking addiction and how they can be modified. Patients will receive dTMS treatment while researchers monitor changes in brain activity and smoking habits.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia who also have a smoking habit.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have schizophrenia or who do not smoke may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for reducing smoking in patients with schizophrenia, potentially improving their overall health and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that dTMS can be effective for smoking cessation in the general population, but its application in schizophrenia is still being explored.

Where this research is happening

Stony Brook, 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.
Conditions Mental disordersMental health disordersPsychiatric DiseasePsychiatric Disorderpsychological disorder
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.