TMS markers to detect and predict thinking problems in Parkinson's disease

Is this trial a fit for you?

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 paired-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) techniques — including SICI, SAI, and ICF — to measure cortical excitability and specific neurotransmission-related circuits in people with Parkinson's disease. Participants will undergo detailed neuropsychological testing to classify them as cognitively normal, PD with mild cognitive impairment (PD-MCI), or PD with dementia (PD-D), and TMS measures will be compared across these groups. The study will also track whether baseline TMS markers predict later cognitive decline. Standard exclusions apply, such as implanted ferromagnetic or electronic devices and a history of epilepsy.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Age \> 18 years
* Ability to undergo an extensive neuropsychological evaluation
* Ability to sign informed consent for the study
* Diagnosed with idiopathic PD according to the latest revision of the MDS criteria
* On stable and optimal antiparkinsonian therapy for at least four weeks

Exclusion Criteria:

* Systemic diseases of significant severity, including cardiovascular and cerebrovascular conditions (e.g., active neoplasms requiring chemotherapy, or end-stage heart failure)
* Presence of any active neurological disease, in addition to PD
* Presence of a cochlear implant, ferromagnetic brain device or near the site of brain stimulation, pacemaker, brain electrodes for DBS, electromechanical devices with IPG, or any other implantable stimulator, including peripheral ones
* History of epilepsy
* History of cerebrovascular, tumor-related, infectious, or metabolic brain conditions predisposing to seizures or causing symptomatic epilepsy
* Pregnancy or breastfeeding
* Alcoholism
* Treatment with anticholinesterase drugs, benzodiazepines, neuroleptics, anticholinergics, or antidepressants in the last month
* Treatment with drugs that lower the seizure threshold (e.g., imipramine, amitriptyline, doxepin, nortriptyline, maprotiline, chlorpromazine, clozapine, foscarnet, ganciclovir, ritonavir, amphetamines, cocaine, MDMA, ecstasy, phencyclidine, ketamine, gamma-hydroxybutyrate, alcohol, theophylline)
* Active cochlear pathology (especially if currently receiving ototoxic drugs, such as aminoglycoside antibiotics)
* Dementia according to the latest revision of the MDS criteria for PDD

Where it's running

• UOC Neurologia - Azienda Provinciale per i Servizi Sanitari (APSS)
  Trento, Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy Recruiting
• SC Clinica Neurologica - Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Giuliano Isontina (ASUGI)
  Trieste, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Italy Not yet recruiting
• UOC Neuroriabilitazione - Azienda Sanitaria dell'Alto Adige
  Sterzing, Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy Not yet recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Ruggero Bacchin, MD — UOC Neurologia - Azienda Sanitaria per i Servizi Sanitari (APSS)
• Study coordinator: Ruggero Bacchin, MD
• Email: ruggero.bacchin@apss.tn.it
• Phone: +39-0461903281

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.