Exploring motor imagery abilities in individuals with aphantasia

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 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.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

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 it's running

• 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

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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.