See how language and general thinking networks help aphasia recovery
Official title: Functional Reorganization and Recovery of the Language and Domain-general Multiple Demand Systems in Aphasia
Run by Boston University Charles River Campus · NCT07926347 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether language and general cognitive networks contribute to language recovery after stroke in people with aphasia.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Boston University Charles River Campus Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Boston, Massachusetts) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | December 2026 |
| Main results expected | July 2031 |
| Study ends | July 2032 |
| Registry record updated | November 10, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07926347 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults with aphasia at least 12 weeks after stroke, medically stable, English fluent, and with a caregiver available to assist.
✕Probably not a fit
Participants with additional major neurological conditions or severe uncorrected sensory impairments may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Researchers will use advanced brain imaging to explore how core language areas and the domain-general Multiple Demand network support language processing and recovery in people with aphasia. The project has three aims: first, to see how standard language tests engage the MD network; then to examine the causal roles of language and MD networks in language ability across different severities; and finally to link imaging findings with recovery outcomes during therapy. Participants receive the Constant Therapy program alongside imaging assessments, with care partners involved for setup and communication. Eligible individuals are at least 12 weeks post-stroke, medically stable, English fluent, and ambulatory with assistance from a caregiver.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, findings could guide personalized therapies that target both language-specific and domain-general pathways to improve recovery.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work suggests brain networks contribute to language recovery, but this project tests causal contributions and imaging-based predictions in aphasia.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * at least 12 weeks post-stroke at time of study enrolment * medically and neurologically stable (no active seizures for 6 months) and at least wheelchair ambulatory * premorbid fluency in English * a family member or caregiver available to assist in study setup and in communicating with study staff Exclusion Criteria: * a major, active neurological condition other than stroke, as determined by medical record review * history of cognitive impairment unrelated to stroke, such as dementia * history of symptomatic stroke prior to index stroke * severe uncorrected vision and/or hearing problems likely to impact study participation * comorbid learning or language disorder diagnosed prior to stroke or as a child
Where it's running
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Center for Brain Recovery, BU Charles River Campus
Boston, Massachusetts, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Swathi Kiran, PhD — BU Charles River Campus, Center for Brain Recovery
- Study coordinator: Swathi Kiran, PhD
- Email: kirans@bu.edu
- Phone: 617-358-5478
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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This study tests whether a 20-minute anodal tDCS session paired with speech therapy can be integrated into routine inpatient and outpatient rehab for people who recently had a stroke and now have aphasia.
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This project will test new ways to measure language, gestures, and everyday communication skills in adults with aphasia after stroke.
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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.