Cerebellar brain stimulation for women with anorexia nervosa
Official title: Cerebellar tDCS Stimulation in Children and Adult Women With Anorexia Nervosa Disorder- A Pilot Study
Run by University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center · NCT06286930 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether a type of brain stimulation can improve social skills and thinking flexibility in young women with anorexia nervosa.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 15 Years to 30 Years |
| Sex | Women only |
| Enrollment | 15 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Dallas, Texas) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 24, 2024 |
| Main results expected | January 2, 2027 |
| Study ends | January 2, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | October 30, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06286930 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are female individuals aged 15-30 diagnosed with anorexia nervosa.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are pregnant, have a history of traumatic brain injury, or have certain medical implants may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of cerebellar transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on social behaviors and cognitive flexibility in women diagnosed with anorexia nervosa. It involves a randomized, single-blind design with 15 female participants aged 15-30, who will receive both anodal and cathodal tDCS while undergoing fMRI imaging. The primary outcomes include measuring changes in social behaviors and neuropsychological impacts, while secondary outcomes focus on the differences between the two types of stimulation. Participants will complete various tasks during and after stimulation to assess the effects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance social cognition and reduce restrictive behaviors in women with anorexia nervosa.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of tDCS in treating eating disorders is still emerging, similar studies have shown promise in other psychiatric conditions, suggesting potential for success.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of Anorexia Nervosa (AN) * Female participants * Age 15-30 years old inclusive at time of enrollment * Ability of parent or legal guardian to provide informed consent if participant is under 18 years old. * Ability of patients ages 15-17 to give assent to the study. * Completion of the signed HIPAA authorization form by a parent or legal guardian or by participants (18 years of age). Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnancy * Known history of traumatic brain injury that required medical care * Non-English speaking (based on standardized neuropsychological testing and questionnaires) * Claustrophobic * Brain Implants * Pacemakers * Hearing or visual impairment * Any biomedical or metal implants in any part of the body (excluding orthopedic implants)
Where it's running
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UT Southwestern Multispecialty Psychiatry Clinic
Dallas, Texas, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Haley Walker
- Email: haley.walker@utsouthwestern.edu
- Phone: 214-648-4617
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.