Understanding how aging affects social cognitive processing in healthy individuals
A Non-interventional Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) and ElectroEncephalography (EEG) Study on the Neural Bases of Social Cognitive Processing in Healthy Individuals
This study looks at how aging affects the way healthy people understand and connect with others, by testing their brain activity and social skills.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 200 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri SpA Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Pavia, Ita) |
| Trial ID | NCT05774860 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to explore the neural bases of social cognitive processing, particularly focusing on empathy and mentalizing, in healthy individuals. Participants will undergo behavioral assessments and, for half of them, fMRI sessions to measure brain activity and structural connectivity related to social cognition. The study seeks to identify specific brain regions associated with individual differences in social cognitive performance and how these may change with aging. By addressing limitations in existing literature, this research hopes to provide insights into the 'social brain' and its role in understanding others' behaviors.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are healthy individuals without any history of substance abuse or psychiatric conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of alcohol or drug abuse, those on psychoactive medications, or individuals with contraindications for MRI will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance our understanding of how aging impacts social cognitive abilities, potentially leading to better interventions for age-related cognitive decline.
How similar studies have performed: While there is existing literature on social cognition, this study aims to fill gaps in understanding the neural mechanisms in healthy aging, making it a novel approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Healthy participants, as determined by screening assessments and principal investigator judgment * The participant must be able to comply with study requirements as judged by the principal investigator Exclusion Criteria: * Any history of alcohol and/or drug abuse, addiction or suspicion of regular consumption of drugs of abuse * Use of any psychoactive medication, or medications known to have effect on central nervous system (CNS) or blood flow * Any contraindications for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans or any brain/head abnormalities restricting MRI eligibility
Where this trial is running
Pavia, Ita
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri SpA — Pavia, Ita, Italy (Recruiting)
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.