Understanding how the brain coordinates sensory and motor learning
Neural Basis of Sensory and Motor Learning: Functional Connections
This study is testing how different parts of the brain work together to help us move our hands accurately, which could lead to better rehabilitation methods for people with brain injuries.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 120 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 45 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Indiana University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Bloomington, Indiana) |
| Trial ID | NCT05124301 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to explore the neural mechanisms behind how sensory and motor areas of the brain collaborate to maintain accurate hand movements, a process known as sensorimotor learning. Participants will undergo a familiarization session followed by functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) while performing tasks that assess their sensory integration capabilities. The research focuses on how multisensory and visuomotor learning affect resting state connectivity between different brain regions. The ultimate goal is to gather insights that could enhance rehabilitation techniques for individuals with brain lesions.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are right-handed individuals aged 18-45 who are free of Covid symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients with neurological disorders, orthopedic conditions in the upper limbs, or those who are claustrophobic may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved rehabilitation strategies for patients recovering from brain injuries.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this study may be novel, similar studies exploring sensory and motor integration have shown promising results.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Ages of 18-45 years old * Right-handed. * Free of Covid symptoms in week preceding testing. Exclusion Criteria: * metallic, mechanical, or magnetic implants; * are claustrophobic, or are unable to remain still for long periods of time; * use an intra-uterine device (IUD) whos MR compatibility has not been established. * Women who are pregnant or think they might be pregnant will also be excluded, as effects of fMRI on the unborn are not known. * People who have a BMI over 30 will be excluded as it may be uncomfortable or impossible to lay in the MRI scanner and reach the button box. * Potential subjects will be excluded if they have any neurological disorders, or orthopedic or pain conditions in the upper limbs. * Investigators will also exclude subjects who do not have normal vision, or corrected-to-normal vision with contacts, or the imaging center does not have a pair of MRI compatible glasses that fits their prescription. * investigators will invite subjects to reschedule if they have any of the common Covid symptoms within the last week and if they haven't been fully vaccinated or obtained a negative Covid test within the past 4 days. If they don't believe they can meet these criteria on another date, they will be excluded. * After giving their consent, participants may be excluded during the study if they are unable to perform the tasks or follow instructions.
Where this trial is running
Bloomington, Indiana
- Indiana University Bloomington — Bloomington, Indiana, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Hannah Block — Indiana University, Bloomington
- Study coordinator: Hannah Block, PhD
- Email: hjblock@indiana.edu
- Phone: 8128555390
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.