Improving language function in patients with Primary Progressive Aphasia
Enhancing Language Function in Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA) With Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS)
This study is testing whether a new treatment that combines brain stimulation with language therapy can help people with Primary Progressive Aphasia improve their language skills.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Ages | 45 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Arizona Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Tucson, Arizona) |
| Trial ID | NCT04920318 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to enhance language abilities in individuals diagnosed with Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA) using non-invasive brain stimulation techniques, specifically transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), combined with behavioral language therapy. The approach focuses on stimulating specific brain regions that are structurally preserved but functionally impaired due to the neurodegenerative nature of PPA. By utilizing functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to identify targeted areas for stimulation, the study seeks to optimize electrode placement for each participant. The goal is to assess both short- and long-term effects of this combined intervention on language function.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals diagnosed with Primary Progressive Aphasia who exhibit speech-language deficits.
Not a fit: Patients with other neurological disorders, severe systemic diseases, or contraindications for MRI may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve language capabilities in patients suffering from Primary Progressive Aphasia.
How similar studies have performed: While tDCS has shown promise in other neurological conditions, its application in Primary Progressive Aphasia is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * diagnosed with PPA by neurologist or speech-language pathologist * speech-language deficit arising from PPA * native speaker of English Language or equivalent * adequate vision (normal or corrected to normal) * adequate hearing Exclusion Criteria: * meeting (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual) DSM-IV criteria for Axis I mood, anxiety, psychotic or substance abuse disorders. * highly magnetizable metallic implants, including certain dental work * neurological disorders besides the ones of interest for the study (e.g., epilepsy) * Multiple Sclerosis * Parkinson's Disease * contraindications for MRI * pacemakers * metallic cardiac pumps * valves * magnetic materials such as surgical clips, implanted electronic perfusion pumps, or any other condition that would preclude proximity to a strong magnetic field. * clinically significant claustrophobia * severe systemic disease (e.g., renal failure) * poor health * pregnancy * epileptic activity in the past 12 months * family history of epilepsy or other seizure disorders * brain surgery in the past * metallic skull plates or implants * skin lesions or skull damage * excessive use of alcohol or drugs * premorbid psychiatric disease affecting communication * severe non-linguistic cognitive disturbances impeding language therapy
Where this trial is running
Tucson, Arizona
- University of Arizona — Tucson, Arizona, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Aneta Kielar, PhD — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Aneta Kielar, PhD
- Email: akielar@email.arizona.edu
- Phone: 15204883791
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.