Network-guided TMS for improving memory in early Alzheimer's disease

Using Network-guided TMS to Ameliorate Memory Deficits in Early Alzheimer's Disease

NA · Duke University · NCT04549155

This study is testing a new way to use brain stimulation to see if it can help improve memory in adults with mild cognitive impairment related to early Alzheimer's disease.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages55 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorDuke University (other)
Locations1 site (Durham, North Carolina)
Trial IDNCT04549155 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research tests a novel approach using network-based transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to enhance memory function in adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). By utilizing MRI-derived measures of brain connectivity, the study aims to identify optimal target sites for neurostimulation and compare the effects of active TMS against a sham stimulation condition. The goal is to provide evidence for the efficacy of non-invasive treatments to combat cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's disease. This innovative methodology focuses on the whole-brain network rather than isolated brain regions, potentially leading to more effective interventions.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are English-speaking adults aged 55-80 with a clinical consensus diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of significant neurological disorders or those with conditions that increase seizure risk may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could offer a new non-invasive treatment option to improve memory function in individuals with early Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: While previous studies have explored TMS in normative populations, this network-based approach in Alzheimer's-related populations is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Elderly: age between 55-80
* English speaking
* Willing to provide consent
* Signed HIPAA authorization
* Use of effective method of birth control for women of childbearing capacity
* Clinical Consensus for MCI

Exclusion Criteria:

* History of any Axis I DSM-IV disorder
* Current or past history of substance abuse or dependence (excluding nicotine)
* Women who are pregnant or breast feeding
* Intracranial implants (e.g. aneurysms clips, shunts, stimulators, cochlear implants, or electrodes), cardiac pacemakers, or vagus Nerve stimulation device
* Increased risk of seizure for any reason, including prior diagnosis of epilepsy, seizure disorder, increased intracranial pressure, or history of significant head trauma with loss of consciousness for ≥ 30 minutes.
* Neurological disorder including, but not limited to: space occupying brain lesion; any history of seizures, history of cerebrovascular accident; fainting, cerebral aneurysm,
* Dementia, Hungtington chorea; Multiple Sclerosis.
* Current use of medications known to lower the seizure threshold and/or affect working memory
* Current or past history of substance abuse or dependence (excluding nicotine)
* Women who are pregnant or breast feeding

Where this trial is running

Durham, North Carolina

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Mild Cognitive Impairment

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.