Understanding how the brain processes spatial information in epilepsy patients
Neural Mechanisms of Spatial Representations Beyond the Self
This study is testing how the brains of epilepsy patients process spatial information to better understand navigation problems they might face.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Boston University Charles River Campus Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Boston, Massachusetts) |
| Trial ID | NCT05406349 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This research investigates how the human brain encodes spatial information beyond self-representation, particularly in patients with epilepsy who have electrodes implanted for clinical monitoring. The study will involve two groups of participants: those with temporarily implanted electrodes for epilepsy monitoring and those with chronically implanted electrodes as part of the NeuroPace RNS System. Participants will engage in self-navigation and observation tasks to explore neural mechanisms of spatial representation. The research aims to enhance our understanding of spatial navigation deficits associated with neurological disorders.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 70 who have undergone depth electrode placement for epilepsy evaluation or have a NeuroPace RNS System implanted.
Not a fit: Patients with DSM-V Axis I and II disorders other than nicotine dependence or a history of brain damage may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved therapies for patients with epilepsy and related neurological disorders that affect spatial navigation.
How similar studies have performed: While studies have explored self-related spatial information, this approach focusing on social spatial navigation in epilepsy patients is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Between 18 and 70 years of age * Adequate visual and auditory acuity to allow neuropsychological testing * Have undergone depth electrode placement for the purpose of epilepsy evaluation/treatment OR have NeuroPace RNS System implanted for epilepsy treatment Exclusion Criteria: * All DSM-V Axis I and II disorders other than nicotine-dependence * History of brain damage
Where this trial is running
Boston, Massachusetts
- Boston University — Boston, Massachusetts, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Matthias Stangl — Boston University
- Study coordinator: Matthias Stangl
- Email: mstangl@bu.edu
- Phone: 617-353-0879
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.