Investigating cognitive effects of electrical stimulation in schizophrenia
Cognitive Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) and Transcranial Random Noise Stimulation (tRNS) in Schizophrenia: A Random, Crossover Study
This study is testing two types of electrical stimulation to see if they can improve thinking skills in people with schizophrenia.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 36 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 50 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | The National Brain Mapping Laboratory (NBML) Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Tehran and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06155786 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to explore the cognitive effects of two different electrical stimulation techniques, transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and transcranial random noise stimulation (tRNS), applied to the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia. Participants will undergo these interventions to assess their impact on cognitive function. The study will include individuals aged 18-50 who meet specific eligibility criteria, including a stable medication regimen and fluency in the native language. The research will be conducted at multiple locations in Iran.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 18-50 with a diagnosis of schizophrenia who are stable on their medication.
Not a fit: Patients with comorbid mood disorders, history of seizures, or those who are pregnant may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to new non-invasive treatment options for cognitive impairment in schizophrenia.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using electrical stimulation techniques for cognitive enhancement, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of schizophrenia based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM)5 * Being 18-50 years old (male and female) * If female, negative urine pregnancy test * feasibility for tDCS/tRNS interventions according to safety guidelines * stable medication regime, especially for classical neuroleptics and all central nervous system activating medications, if taken, 4-6 weeks before the experiment * fluency in the native language * right-handed * Required written informed consent signed by patients' guardian Exclusion Criteria: * pregnancy * alcohol or substance dependence * comorbid bipolar disorder and mood disorder * history of seizure * history of neurological disorder * history of head injury * Presence of ferromagnetic objects in the body that are contraindicated for brain stimulation of the head (pacemakers or other implanted electrical devices, brain stimulators, some types of dental implants, aneurysm clips, metallic prostheses, permanent eyeliner, implanted delivery pump, or shrapnel fragments)
Where this trial is running
Tehran and 1 other locations
- Payame Noor University, Tehran Branch — Tehran, Iran, Islamic Republic of (Recruiting)
- Zanjan University — Zanjān, Iran, Islamic Republic of (Recruiting)
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.