Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 14 to 25

Improving executive function in young people with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome using brain stimulation

Official title: Using Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation With Starstim Home Device to Improve Executive Function in Youths With 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome: A Randomized Double-blind Sham-controlled Study

Run by University of Geneva, Switzerland · NCT05664412 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing if a type of brain stimulation can help improve memory and thinking skills in children and young adults with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages14 Years to 25 Years
SexAll
Enrollment40 (estimated)
SponsorUniversity of Geneva, Switzerland
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Geneva, Canton of Geneva)
StatusRecruiting
StartedOctober 20, 2023
Main results expectedDecember 31, 2026
Study endsDecember 31, 2026
Registry record updatedDecember 2, 2025
Trial IDNCT05664412 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates are individuals aged 14 to 25 with a confirmed genetic diagnosis of 22q11.2 deletion syndrome.

Probably not a fit

Patients with epilepsy, deep brain stimulation electrodes, traumatic brain injury, or facial metal implants may not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This project investigates the effects of transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) on cognitive function in children, adolescents, and young adults with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. The study aims to enhance visual working memory performance through a non-invasive brain stimulation protocol tailored to individual participants. By targeting cognitive deficits early, the research seeks to mitigate the risk of developing psychotic symptoms later in life. Participants will receive at-home tACS treatments using the Starstim-Home device, allowing for personalized intervention based on their specific needs.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could improve cognitive function and potentially delay or prevent the onset of psychotic symptoms in individuals with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome.

How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using tACS for cognitive enhancement is relatively novel, similar studies have shown promise in improving cognitive functions in other populations.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Confirmed genetic diagnosis of 22q11DS
* Age between 14 and 25 years old
* Willingness to participate
* Informed Consent signed by the subject and/or the caregiver(s)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Epilepsy
* Deep brain stimulation electrodes
* Traumatic brain injury
* Facial metal implants

Where it's running

  • University of Geneva
    Geneva, Canton of Geneva, Switzerland
    Recruiting

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.