Using 40Hz tACS to improve cognitive function in Alzheimer's patients
40Hz tACS in Treating Cognitive Function and Modulating Neurophysiology of Patients With Alzheimer's Disease: a Triple Blind Randomized Sham-controlled Trial
This study is testing whether a new brain stimulation technique can help improve memory and thinking skills in older adults with Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 48 (estimated) |
| Ages | 60 Years to 90 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital. Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Kaohsiung) |
| Trial ID | NCT05723172 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) at a frequency of 40Hz on cognitive function and neurophysiology in patients diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. Participants aged 60 to 90 years will receive either active or sham tACS for 40 minutes in daily sessions. The primary goal is to assess the safety and efficacy of this non-invasive stimulation technique in alleviating memory deficits associated with Alzheimer's. The study will also monitor any changes in brain activity related to cognitive performance.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 60 to 90 with mild cognitive impairment as indicated by specific clinical assessments.
Not a fit: Patients with severe cognitive impairment, significant psychiatric conditions, or contraindications for tACS may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance cognitive function and improve the quality of life for patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using tACS for cognitive enhancement, suggesting potential for success in this novel application for Alzheimer's disease.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * aged 60- to 90-year-old * clinical dementia rating scale (CDR) of 1 or mini-mental state examination (MMSE) score of 18 to 26. * Participants were allowed to maintain their anti-dementia medications without changes from at 3 months before and throughout the study. Exclusion Criteria: * having contraindications for tACS, e.g., implanted brain medical devices or mental in the head, having arrhythmia and with pacemaker implantation, having history of seizures, having history of intracranial neoplasms or surgery, or severe head injuries or cerebrovascular diseases * clinical depression measured by Hamilton depression rating scale score equal and over 17
Where this trial is running
Kaohsiung
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital — Kaohsiung, Taiwan (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Che-Sheng Chu, MD — Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Taiwan
- Study coordinator: Che-Sheng Chu
- Email: cschu@vghks.gov.tw
- Phone: 07-3422121
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.