Neural basis of working memory in people with memory disorders
Official title: Neural Basis of Human Working Memory
Run by Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NCT07617506 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers will test how brain activity during working memory tasks relates to memory problems by recording brain signals from depth electrodes during seizure monitoring.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Vanderbilt University Medical Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Nashville, Tennessee) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 4, 2025 |
| Main results expected | April 2027 |
| Study ends | April 2027 |
| Registry record updated | August 24, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07617506 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults over 18 undergoing SEEG monitoring at Vanderbilt and able to complete the tasks in English.
✕Probably not a fit
Participants not showing memory-related brain activity changes or who discontinue participation may not receive a direct benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
The study records neural activity associated with working memory using depth electrodes implanted for clinical seizure monitoring. It analyzes local field potentials and single neuron spikes during neurocognitive tasks, with some sessions including brain stimulation via depth electrodes. The goal is to better understand how memory works in health and memory disorders and to explore potential diagnostic and treatment avenues, including stimulation. The research is conducted at Vanderbilt University Medical Center with collaboration from the NIMH. Participants are adults undergoing SEEG monitoring, able to complete tasks and English-speaking.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could lead to new ways to diagnose memory impairments and point toward stimulation-based treatments for memory disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using invasive monitoring and stimulation has provided insights into memory processes, but the specific neural basis of working memory with SEEG is still emerging.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Undergoing SEEG monitoring at Vanderbilt University Medical Center * Age \>18 * English speaking Exclusion Criteria: * Age \<18 * Not able to complete questionnaires (unable to comprehend instructions or follow directions)
Where it's running
-
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, Tennessee, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Lucas Chang, BS
- Email: lucas.m.chang@vumc.org
- Phone: 615-421-3046
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.