Investigating the effects of light therapy on brain health and cognitive function
Brain Vascular and Neurocognitive Health
This study is testing whether a special light therapy can improve brain health and thinking skills in adults aged 18 to 80, especially for those with Alzheimer's or cognitive decline.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | The University of Texas at Arlington Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Arlington, Texas) |
| Trial ID | NCT06497413 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate the acute and chronic effects of transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) on cerebral vascular health and neurocognitive function in individuals aged 18-80. By utilizing a non-invasive light therapy approach, the research seeks to enhance mitochondrial activity and cerebral oxygenation, potentially improving cognitive function in patients with conditions like Alzheimer's disease and cognitive decline. The study will involve participants receiving tPBM treatment using a specialized helmet, with assessments of their cognitive and vascular health over time. The findings could provide insights into new therapeutic strategies for neurocognitive impairments.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are men and women aged 18-80 who are experiencing cognitive decline or dysfunction.
Not a fit: Patients with recent brain injuries or surgeries, or those unable to provide consent, may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved cognitive function and quality of life for patients suffering from neurocognitive disorders.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited evidence regarding the effectiveness of tPBM in humans, animal studies have shown promising results, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Both men and women between the ages of 18-80 and of any race/ethnicity will be included in this study. Exclusion Criteria: * Individuals who have donated more than 550 ml of blood within the past 8 weeks will not have blood drawn from them in this protocol. However, if they remain interested in the study, and otherwise meet the inclusion criteria, then the investigators may still opt to proceed with data collection. * Abnormal results from the blood screening will not impact eligibility for the study. * Individuals with brain injuries/surgeries in a year before the study and individuals who can not provide consent on their own will be excluded from participation. * Pregnant subjects, women who are breast feeding, and children (i.e. younger than 18) will not be recruited for the study. This will be assessed via self-report. * If a subject has any allergies to spandex/lycra, the subject will be excluded. However, latex allergies are not contraindicated. * Individuals with cardiac pacemakers and/or implantable cardioverter defibrillators and individuals with epilepsy will be excluded.
Where this trial is running
Arlington, Texas
- UT Arlington - Science and Engineering Innovation and Research Building — Arlington, Texas, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Robert M Brothers, PhD — University of Texas at Arlington
- Study coordinator: Robert M Brothers, PhD
- Email: matthew.brothers@uta.edu
- Phone: 8172323156
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.