Using sensory stimulation to influence brain activity in Alzheimer's disease
Manipulating Neural Oscillations with Non-Invasive Sensory Stimulation for Alzheimer's Disease Intervention
This study is looking at how gentle sensory stimulation might change brain activity in people with Alzheimer's, with the hope of finding new ways to help manage the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11014068 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how non-invasive sensory stimulation can alter brain activity patterns in individuals with Alzheimer's disease. By employing a technique called Gamma ENtrainment Using Sensory stimuli (GENUS), the study aims to enhance neural oscillations that may help alleviate some of the disease's effects. The researchers will explore the interactions between brain cells, particularly focusing on how certain genetic factors related to Alzheimer's risk influence the response to this stimulation. The findings could lead to new therapeutic approaches for managing Alzheimer's disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk for developing it.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia or significant comorbid neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel non-invasive treatment option that may improve cognitive function and quality of life for patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results using similar non-invasive techniques to influence brain activity, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Cambridge, United States
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology — Cambridge, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tsai, Li-Huei — Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Tsai, Li-Huei
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 below.