Evaluating brain stimulation effects on cognition in Parkinson's Disease
Official title: Theta Burst Subthalamic Nucleus Deep Brain Stimulation for Cognitive and Motor Improvements in Parkinson's Disease
Run by University of Southern California · NCT05307055 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if a new type of brain stimulation can improve thinking skills in people with Parkinson's Disease who already have a deep brain stimulator.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Southern California Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Los Angeles, California) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 11, 2022 |
| Main results expected | August 31, 2029 |
| Study ends | August 31, 2029 |
| Registry record updated | June 11, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT05307055 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults over 18 years old with a history of bilateral STN deep brain stimulation implantation and stable medication regimens.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with a history of epilepsy, dementia, or major substance abuse 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 impact of low frequency burst stimulation on cognitive function in individuals with Parkinson's Disease who already have a deep brain stimulator implanted. A total of 32 participants will undergo a randomized double-blind crossover design, where they will experience changes in their stimulation settings and complete neurocognitive assessments. The study will also utilize fMRI scans at baseline and at specified intervals to monitor changes in brain activity. The aim is to compare the effects of theta burst stimulation against standard gamma stimulation on both cognitive and motor performance.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved cognitive function in patients with Parkinson's Disease through optimized brain stimulation techniques.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using theta burst stimulation is relatively novel, similar studies have shown promise in enhancing cognitive functions through brain stimulation techniques.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Male or female patients who had previously undergone bilateral STN deep brain stimulation implantation 2. Age \>18 years old 3. Stable medication regimen for at least 3 months. 4. Patient informed and able to give written consent 5. Able to comply with all testing, follow-ups and study appointments and protocols Exclusion Criteria: 1. History of epilepsy or seizure 2. History of dementia 3. History of major substance abuse
Where it's running
-
University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine
Los Angeles, California, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Darrin Lee, MD PhD — University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Darrin Lee, MD PhD
- Email: darrin.lee@med.usc.edu
- Phone: 9495220866
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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.