Exploring brain function in action observation for patients with cerebral palsy

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to investigate the anatomical and functional characteristics of the action observation network (AON) in individuals with cerebral palsy using ultra-high field 7 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The research focuses on understanding the connectivity of subcortical areas and the cerebellum within the AON circuit and how these relate to clinical characteristics of patients. Participants will undergo a detailed clinical assessment followed by a 7T MRI scan to gather data on brain activation patterns. The study seeks to demonstrate the feasibility of this approach for studying brain reorganization mechanisms after early brain damage.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

For CP patients

Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients with pre-, peri- or post-natal brain injury, documented by a previous MRI examination of the brain;
* Intellectual development within the norm or within the mild deficit area, to guarantee understanding and cooperation in the 7T fMRI study;
* Understanding of the Italian language;

Exclusion Criteria:

* Contraindications to performing the 7T fMRI exam;
* Neuropsychiatric comorbidity that precludes collaboration in the 7T fMRI study;
* Lack of capacity to understand and to will;
* Pregnancy;

For Healthy Controls

Inclusion Criteria:

* Absence of known neurological and psychiatric pathologies;
* Understanding of the Italian language;

Exclusion Criteria:

* Contraindications to performing the 7T fMRI exam;
* Neuropsychiatric comorbidity that precludes collaboration in the 7T fMRI study;
* Lack of capacity to understand and to will;
* Pregnancy;

Where it's running

• IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris
  Calambrone, Pisa, Italy Recruiting
• Fondazione IMAGO7
  Calambrone, Pisa, Italy Active not recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Laura Biagi, PhD — IRCCS Stella Maris
• Study coordinator: Laura Biagi, PhD
• Email: laura.biagi@fsm.unipi.it
• Phone: +39050886175

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.