Exploring the effects of taVNS on pupil response and learning
The Effect of Transcutaneous Auricular Vagal Nerve Stimulation (taVNS) on Pupillary Response and Perceptual Learning
NA · NYU Langone Health · NCT05386563
This study is testing if a new type of nerve stimulation can improve how people learn and respond to tasks by looking at changes in their pupils and brain activity.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | NYU Langone Health (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (New York, New York) |
| Trial ID | NCT05386563 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of transcutaneous auricular vagal nerve stimulation (taVNS) on pupillary response and perceptual learning. It consists of two parts: the first evaluates taVNS and sham stimulation during a passive task while measuring pupillary response, and the second assigns participants to receive taVNS, sham, or no intervention during a go/no-go task to assess perceptual learning across three sessions. The study also incorporates electroencephalogram (EEG) measurements to gather additional data on brain activity related to these tasks.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are healthy individuals aged 18 to 65 with normal audiometric testing.
Not a fit: Patients with co-morbidities such as cardiomyopathies, arrhythmias, or those with implantable devices will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance our understanding of how taVNS influences cognitive processes and pupillary responses, potentially leading to new therapeutic approaches.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of taVNS in this context may be novel, similar studies exploring vagal nerve stimulation have shown promising results in other areas.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Healthy individuals 18 to 65 * Normal audiometric testing Exclusion Criteria: * Co-morbidities including cardiomyopathies, arrhythmias * Implantable devices including vagal stimulators, pacemakers * Presence of metallic implants * Pregnancy
Where this trial is running
New York, New York
- NYU Langone Health - Bellevue Hospital — New York, New York, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Mario Svirsky, PhD — NYU Langone Health
- Study coordinator: Mario Svirsky, PhD
- Email: Mario.svirsky@nyulangone.org
- Phone: 212-263-7217
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.
Conditions: Pupillary Response