Using magnetic stimulation to improve cognitive function in patients with mild cognitive impairment.
Official title: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for MCI: A Phase II Dose-Response Study
Funded at Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-11080236 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a treatment called repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can help people with mild cognitive impairment and depression feel better and think more clearly, with the hope of stopping their condition from getting worse.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $733,497 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG081237-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080236 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment, particularly those who also have symptoms of depression.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with severe cognitive impairment or those not experiencing depressive symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) as a treatment for patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), particularly those who also experience depression. The study aims to determine the optimal dose of rTMS that can enhance cognitive abilities and alleviate depressive symptoms, potentially preventing the progression to dementia. Patients will receive targeted stimulation to specific brain areas known to be involved in both mood and cognitive control. The research builds on previous findings that suggest rTMS can be effective in treating neuropsychiatric symptoms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a non-invasive treatment option that helps prevent dementia in individuals with mild cognitive impairment.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that rTMS can improve symptoms in various neuropsychiatric conditions, suggesting a promising avenue for this approach in MCI.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Benitez, Andreana — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Benitez, Andreana
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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.