Speed-based brain training for mild cognitive impairment
Official title: Improving Neurological Health With Acetylcholine Via Neuroplasticity-based Computerized Exercise in Mild Cognitive Impairment (INHANCE-MCI)
Run by Posit Science Corporation · NCT07243600 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests two computer-based training programs to see if speed-focused cognitive practice helps brain health and thinking skills in seniors with mild cognitive impairment.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 84 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Posit Science Corporation Industry-sponsored |
| Drugs / interventions | Aducanumab, Lecanemab, Donanemab, chemotherapy, radiation |
| Locations | 1 site (Montreal, Quebec) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 25, 2026 |
| Main results expected | May 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | May 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | September 21, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07243600 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults 65 years and older with mild cognitive impairment (MoCA 18-26, CDR 0.5 with memory scores) and a regular study partner, able to participate in computer-based training.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with more advanced cognitive impairment or substantial functional decline, or those unable to comply with training and assessments, 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
This randomized, double-blind, active-controlled trial will compare a speed-based neuroplasticity training program to a visual non-speeded control program in adults aged 65 and older with mild cognitive impairment. Participants will undergo PET imaging and MRI at baseline, complete about 35 hours of training over 10 weeks, and return for follow-up imaging and assessments to measure changes in cognition and brain chemistry. The study aims to see if the speed training alters cholinergic signaling and improves cognitive and functional performance, with a 3-month post-intervention follow-up to assess durability. Approximately 84 participants will be enrolled to ensure at least 70 completers after attrition. Lead sponsor is Posit Science Corporation with collaborators from McGill University, at Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants may experience improvements in memory, thinking speed, and daily functioning, with potential changes in brain chemistry related to cholinergic signaling.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using computerized cognitive training has shown signal changes and cognitive benefits in some MCI populations, but results are variable across programs and outcomes.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Potential participant must be 65 years or older at the time of study screening. 2. Potential participant must have MCI as defined by: * Total score between 18-26 inclusive on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) * Cognitive concern by participant, informant, or clinician and evidence of preserved functional abilities as defined as a Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) of 0.5 with a memory score of 0.5 or 1. 3. Potential participant must have a study partner/informant defined as any acquaintance (e.g., family member, friend, neighbor, clinician) who has regular (at least monthly) interactions (in person or remote) with the participant. 4. If potential participant reports use of medications typically prescribed for dementia such as, but not limited to, Namenda, Memantine, Namzaric, Donepezil, Aricept, Rivastigmine, Exelon, Razadyne, Galantamine, Reminyl, Aducanumab, Leqembi or Lecanemab, Donanemab, the dose must be stable for at least 12 weeks prior to study enrollment. 5. Potential participant must demonstrate adequate decisional capacity, in the judgment of the investigator, and capable of to making an informed decision regarding their participation in this research study. 6. Potential participant must be likely able to complete all study activities and outcome measures in the judgment of the investigator. 7. Potential participant must have the visual, auditory, and motors capacity to use the computerized intervention in the judgment of the investigator. 8. Potential participant must be able to communicate in either English or French. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Potential participant has an existing diagnosis of major neurocognitive disorder at screening (DSM-IV). 2. Potential participant who answered 'yes' to question 5 (Active Suicidal Ideation with Specific Plan and Intent) on the C-SSRS or 'yes' to any of the suicide-related behaviors (actual attempt, interrupted attempt, aborted attempt, preparatory act or behavior) on the C-SSRS "Suicidal Behavior" if the ideation or behavior occurred within 2 months from Participant's date of consent (as recommended by the FDA for treatment trials.) 3. Potential participant scores \>10 on the Geriatric Depression Scale - Short Form (GDS-SF). 4. Potential participant has previously completed 10 or more hours of the computerized cognitive intervention program manufactured by Posit Science. 5. Potential participant is participating in a concurrent clinical trial (involving an investigational pharmaceutical, behavioral treatment, medical device or other) that, in the judgment of the investigator, could affect the outcome of this study. 6. Potential participant is pregnant or breastfeeding. 7. Potential participant has claustrophobia or implantation with any medical devices above the waist that may concentrate radio frequency fields or have other medical issues that may frustrate participation in MRI/PET imaging procedures. 8. Potential participant has a history of large vessel stroke with significant residual motor or cognitive impairment. 9. Potential participant has a history of moderate to severe traumatic brain injury with residual cognitive symptoms. 10. Potential participant has a history of brain tumor. 11. Potential participant has a congestive heart failure diagnosis. 12. Potential participant has a primary diagnosis of idiopathic Parkinson's disease. 13. Potential participant has multiple sclerosis or Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis diagnosis. 14. Potential participant has evidence of a non-neurodegenerative neurological disorder that would interfere with the ability to carry out study activities. 15. Potential participant has has evidence of any other unstable medical conditions that would interfere with the ability to carry out study activities or cause fluctuations in cognition (for example, but not limited to, unstable diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder dependent on oxygen). 16. Potential participant has any other clinically significant or unstable medical condition (for example, but not limited to, ongoing alcohol dependency or drug abuse, schizophrenia, psychosis) that in the investigator's opinion would interfere with the ability to carry out study activities. 17. Potential participant is undergoing or plans to undergo surgery requiring anesthesia, chemotherapy, or radiation treatment in the six months following screening (can be rescreened and enrolled later).
Where it's running
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Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital
Montreal, Quebec, Canada Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Mouna Attarha, PhD — Posit Science Corporation
- Study coordinator: Sarah-Jane Grant, MA
- Email: sarah-jane.grant@positscience.com
- Phone: 415-539-3130
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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.