Exploring how to change learned motor skills in the brain
Probing Mechanisms of Procedural Memory Transformation with Cross-frequency Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation (cf-tACS) As an Avenue to Sculpt Sensorimotor Behavior
This study is testing if a new brain stimulation technique can help people change bad motor habits, like poor posture in sports or music, especially for those recovering from chronic pain or stroke.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Medical University of South Carolina Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Charleston, South Carolina) |
| Trial ID | NCT05946616 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the brain mechanisms involved in modifying established motor memories, such as correcting bad posture in activities like golf or piano playing. It employs electroencephalography (EEG) to monitor brain activity while using non-invasive brain stimulation techniques, specifically transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), to facilitate the relearning process. The goal is to determine if these interventions can effectively alter pre-existing motor skills and support the acquisition of new ones, particularly in individuals recovering from conditions like chronic pain or stroke.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older, particularly those aged 60 and above, who have no history of neurological disorders or significant head trauma.
Not a fit: Patients with neurological or psychiatric disorders, or those with conditions affecting motor skills, are unlikely to benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance rehabilitation strategies for individuals needing to unlearn harmful motor behaviors.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific combination of tACS and motor memory modification is novel, similar studies have shown promise in using brain stimulation techniques for motor learning.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18 years or older (2/3 of the final sample will be ≥60years of age) * No previous stroke, brain tumor, neurodegenerative disease, or trauma to the head * Ability to give consent for study participation * who have access to a personal computer with internet Exclusion Criteria: * • Pregnancy * Inability to use all ten fingers to type on a standard computer keyboard * Uncorrected vision, hindering perception of visual cues presented on a standard computer screen * Medication use at the time of study that may interfere with learning or the effect of tACS, including but not limited to carbamazepine, flunarizine, sulpiride, rivastigmine, dextromethorphan; * Neuromuscular disorders affecting hand and finger movements necessary for 10-finger keyboard typing * Presence of neurological or psychiatric disorders * Presence of scalp injury or disease * Prior history of seizures * Prior intracranial surgery * Prior brain radiotherapy * Prior history of intracranial tumor, intracranial infection, or cerebrovascular malformation * Metal in head or neck * Contraindications to MRI (such as severe claustrophobia, implanted medical devices)
Where this trial is running
Charleston, South Carolina
- Medical University of South Carolina — Charleston, South Carolina, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Kirstin-Friederike Heise, PhD — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Kirstin-Friederike Heise, PhD
- Email: heisek@musc.edu
- Phone: (843)792-
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.