Enhancing memory through amygdala stimulation
Mechanisms of Amygdala-Mediated Memory Enhancement in Humans
NA · Washington University School of Medicine · NCT05065450
This study is testing if stimulating a part of the brain called the amygdala can help improve memory in people with epilepsy who are being monitored for seizures.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 90 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 75 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Washington University School of Medicine (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (St Louis, Missouri) |
| Trial ID | NCT05065450 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates how direct electrical stimulation of the amygdala can enhance memory retention by modulating memory processes in the medial temporal lobe. It aims to understand the mechanisms by which the amygdala influences long-term memory, particularly in individuals with epilepsy who are undergoing monitoring for seizure localization. The research focuses on how emotional arousal and neuronal oscillations in the medial temporal lobe can support declarative memory. By exploring these connections, the study seeks to advance our understanding of memory function and develop new therapeutic approaches for memory disorders.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals diagnosed with epilepsy who are scheduled for long-term intracranial video monitoring.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have epilepsy or are unable to provide informed consent will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to innovative treatments for memory enhancement in patients with cognitive impairments.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using direct electrical stimulation for memory enhancement is novel, similar studies have shown promising results in understanding memory processes.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Must be able to understand and speak English. * Able to provide informed consent. * Diagnosed with epilepsy. * Scheduled to undergo long-term intra-cranial video monitoring for seizure onset localization. * Must be implanted with intracranial depth electrodes to the left or right amygdala, hippocampus, and parahippocampal/perirhinal cortices. Exclusion Criteria: * Unable to understand and speak English. * Unable to provide informed consent. * Not diagnosed with epilepsy.
Where this trial is running
St Louis, Missouri
- Washington University School of Medicine — St Louis, Missouri, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Joan Atencio
- Email: atencio@wustl.edu
- Phone: 314-362-3114
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.
Conditions: Brain Diseases, Epilepsy, Memory Disorders, Traumatic Brain Injury, Cognitive Impairment, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder