Understanding how the brain's posterior cingulate cortex affects memory decisions
Posterior Cingulate Cortex and Executive Control of Episodic Memory
This study is trying to see how different parts of a brain area called the posterior cingulate cortex affect memory decisions in people with epilepsy.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 130 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 50 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Pennsylvania Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) |
| Trial ID | NCT06540976 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This project investigates the role of the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) in episodic memory by utilizing intracranial recordings and stimulation during routine clinical monitoring of brain activity in epilepsy patients. The study aims to differentiate how various subregions of the PCC contribute to memory-based decision-making processes. By focusing on the executive functions associated with memory retrieval, the research seeks to uncover the neural mechanisms that support the integration and evaluation of past experiences. The findings could enhance our understanding of memory behavior and its underlying brain functions.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients aged 18-50 undergoing invasive brain monitoring for epilepsy.
Not a fit: Patients outside the specified age range or those with cognitive impairments will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for addressing memory-related disorders.
How similar studies have performed: While studies on memory and brain function exist, this specific focus on the PCC's executive role in episodic memory is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * All participants are patients undergoing invasive brain monitoring for epilepsy and will be asked to consent to participation in this basic science protocol (which is focused on the patient group but is not focused on the study of epilepsy). Exclusion Criteria: * Individuals not undergoing invasive brain monitoring for epilepsy. * Individuals outside of the age range (18-50 yrs). * Individuals with cognitive impairment or intellectual difficulty.
Where this trial is running
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania - Pavilion — Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Ilaina Edelstein
- Email: Ilaina.Edelstein@Pennmedicine.upenn.edu
- Phone: 2156153525
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.