Cerebellar brain stimulation for women with anorexia nervosa
Cerebellar tDCS Stimulation in Children and Adult Women With Anorexia Nervosa Disorder- A Pilot Study
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
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 15 (estimated) |
| Ages | 15 Years to 30 Years |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Dallas, Texas) |
| Trial ID | NCT06286930 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are female individuals aged 15-30 diagnosed with anorexia nervosa.
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.
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 performed: 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.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
Dallas, Texas
- 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
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.