Testing a new model of speech motor learning and retention
Official title: Sensorimotor Basis of Speech Motor Learning and Retention
Run by Yale University · NCT06467305 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to help people learn and remember how to speak by looking at how different parts of the brain work together during speech practice.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 40 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 160 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Yale University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (New Haven, Connecticut) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 1, 2024 |
| Main results expected | November 30, 2028 |
| Study ends | May 31, 2029 |
| Registry record updated | February 19, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06467305 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are fluent English-speaking, right-handed individuals with normal hearing and no speech disorders.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with neurological disorders, metal implants, or those on psychoactive medications may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This research aims to explore a novel model of speech motor learning by investigating the role of brain plasticity in motor, auditory, and somatosensory regions. The study will utilize transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to disrupt specific brain areas and assess their impact on the retention of newly learned speech movements. Participants will engage in tasks involving altered auditory feedback while their brain activity is monitored using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). The goal is to identify which brain circuits are crucial for learning and retaining speech motor skills.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved therapies for individuals with speech motor learning difficulties.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in using TMS and fMRI to understand brain functions related to motor learning, suggesting this approach has potential.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Fluent English speakers * Right-handed * Normal hearing * No speech disorder or reading disability Exclusion Criteria: * Cardiac pacemaker * Aneurysm clip * Heart or Vascular clip * Prosthetic valve * Metal implants * Metal in brain, skull, or spinal cord * Implanted neurostimulator * Medication infusion device * Cochlear implant or tinnitus (ringing in ears) * Personal and/or family history of epilepsy or other neurological disorders or history of head concussion * Psychoactive medications * Pregnancy
Where it's running
-
Yale Child Study Center
New Haven, Connecticut, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: David Ostry — Yale University
- Study coordinator: David Ostry
- Email: david.ostry@yale.edu
- Phone: 2038656163
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Testing a new model for learning and retaining speech motor skills
This study is testing a new way to help people learn and remember how to speak by looking at how different parts of the brain work together during speech practice.
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.