Using non-invasive brain stimulation to treat apathy

Investigation of non-invasive brain stimulation for the treatment of apathy

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-10889273

This study is looking at a safe way to use brain stimulation to help boost motivation and thinking skills in people with conditions like Parkinson's disease who often feel apathetic, with the hope of making their lives better.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-10889273 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of non-invasive brain stimulation techniques, specifically transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), to address apathy in patients with neurological and psychiatric conditions. The study aims to understand how these techniques can enhance motivation and cognitive function, which are often impaired in disorders like Parkinson's disease. Patients will be monitored using electroencephalography (EEG) to assess brain activity during treatment, and the research will also focus on developing effective clinical trial designs. The ultimate goal is to improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from apathy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with neurological or psychiatric disorders who experience significant apathy.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have neurological or psychiatric conditions, or those without symptoms of apathy, may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, effective treatments for apathy, significantly improving patients' motivation and overall well-being.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results using non-invasive brain stimulation techniques for various neurological conditions, indicating potential for success in this area as well.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, 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.