Exploring how the locus coeruleus affects attention in healthy adults

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 study aims to investigate the function of the locus coeruleus (LC), a brain region involved in attention and cognitive processes, by developing advanced imaging techniques to measure its activity. Using high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tailored for the brainstem, the researchers will assess the LC's role in sustained attention and goal-directed behavior. The study will also involve pharmacological manipulation with modafinil to confirm the functional activity of the LC. By improving methods to measure LC activity, the research seeks to enhance understanding of attentional control and its implications for mental health disorders.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Between the ages of 18 - 60 years of age,
* Typically developing, healthy adult

Exclusion Criteria:

* History of schizophrenia, other forms of psychosis,
* Specific or focal neurological disorder or severe alcohol or drug use disorder within the past 5 years
* History of left ventricular hypertrophy or in patients with mitral valve prolapse who have experienced the mitral valve prolapse syndrome when previously receiving CNS stimulants, or who have had recent history of myocardial infarction or unstable angina.
* Volunteers with known hypersensitivity to modafinil or armodafinil or its inactive ingredients
* Known allergy/sensitivity or any hypersensitivity to components of modafinil or its formulation
* Inability to swallow tablets or tolerate oral medication;
* Pregnant or nursing (participants will be required to have a negative pregnancy test)
* Contraindication for MRI scanning (metal implants, pacemakers, metal foreign bodies, or pregnancy)
* Use of psychotropic medication within the past week
* Claustrophobic and not comfortable being in a small space may also not want to participate

Where it's running

• University of California, Davis
  Sacramento, California, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Julie Schweitzer, PhD
• Email: jschweitzer@ucdavis.edu
• Phone: 9167030450

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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.