Exploring motor imagery abilities in individuals with aphantasia
Probing and Modulating Motor Imagery Capacities in Aphantasia
This study is testing if a brain stimulation treatment can help people with aphantasia improve their ability to imagine movements compared to those who can visualize normally.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Hôpital le Vinatier Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Bron) |
| Trial ID | NCT06140940 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the motor imagery abilities of individuals with aphantasia by comparing them to those with typical mental imagery. It aims to characterize the neurophysiological and physiological aspects of motor imagery in both groups. Participants with aphantasia will undergo non-invasive brain stimulation (tDCS) while performing a mental imagery task, with the goal of determining if this intervention can enhance their mental imagery capabilities. The study employs a randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled, crossover design to ensure robust results.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals with congenital aphantasia who have a lifelong inability to generate mental imagery.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of neurological or mental illness, or those with musculoskeletal disorders affecting the upper limb, may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved mental imagery abilities in individuals with aphantasia, enhancing their cognitive and functional outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using tDCS for enhancing mental imagery is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in other cognitive domains, suggesting potential for success.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * For the aphantasia group only: congenital aphantasia defined as a life-long inability to generate mental imagery (confirmed by a total score of 32 or less on the VVIQ, which is the gold standard questionnaire for aphantasia) * For the no-aphantasia group only: typical mental imagery capacities (confirmed by a total score of more than 32 on the VVIQ) * Covered by public health insurance * Understanding the French language * Signed written informed consent after being informed about the study Exclusion Criteria: * Presence or history of a somatic, neurologic, or mental illness * Actual pain or musculoskeletal disorders at the upper limb * Having a regular musical activity (more than once a week) because of high manual dexterity * Contraindication for noninvasive brain stimulation including the presence of ferromagnetic or magnetic sensitive metal objects implanted in the head or in close proximity (e.g., brain stent, clip, cochlear implants, or stimulator) * Pregnancy (controlled by urine pregnancy test in females without reported contraception) * Active seizure disorder or history of seizures * Participants under curatorship/guardianship
Where this trial is running
Bron
- Centre Hospitalier le Vinatier — Bron, France (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Marine MONDINO, PhD — CH le Vinatier
- Study coordinator: Lydie SARTELET
- Email: lydie.sartelet@ch-le-vinatier.fr
- Phone: 0 437915531
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.