Using 40 Hz brain stimulation to improve cognitive function in older adults

Induction and Stabilization of Gamma Oscillations With 40 Hz Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation in Healthy Elderly

Not applicable Interventional The National Brain Mapping Laboratory (NBML) · NCT06740864

This study is testing if a special brain stimulation technique can help improve memory and thinking skills in older adults by comparing different ways of applying the stimulation.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages50 Years to 85 Years
SexAll
SponsorThe National Brain Mapping Laboratory (NBML) Academic / other
Locations1 site (Tehran)
Trial IDNCT06740864 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effectiveness of different protocols of 40 Hz transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) in enhancing gamma oscillations, which are crucial for cognitive functions. It specifically compares the effects of tACS applied to frontal brain regions versus fronto-temporal regions on gamma oscillations and working memory in healthy elderly individuals. The study aims to determine how these stimulation techniques can influence cognitive performance, particularly in the context of Alzheimer's disease and cognitive decline.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are healthy elderly individuals aged 50-80 who have normal or corrected vision and demonstrate good working memory performance.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of neurological or psychiatric disorders, significant cognitive decline, or those taking certain medications may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to new non-invasive treatments for improving cognitive function in older adults and potentially delaying the onset of Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of tACS is a relatively novel approach, preliminary studies have shown promise in enhancing cognitive functions, suggesting potential for success in this area.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* healthy elderly between 50-80 years of age
* normal or corrected to normal eye vision
* right-handed
* non-smokers
* at least 70 % accuracy in working memory training task

Exclusion Criteria:

* history of neurological or psychiatric disorders including seizures or epilepsy,
* Taking CNS, blood pressure and other medications
* having metal implants in the head and neck
* significant cognitive decline meassured by The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)

Where this trial is running

Tehran

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Alzheimer DiseaseCognitive Decline
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.