Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Phase 1 Interventional Ages 18 and up

Using brain activity patterns to improve hand recovery after stroke

Official title: Identifying Personalized Brain States Predicting Residual Corticospinal Tract Output After Stroke

Run by University of Texas at Austin · NCT06365099 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing if a special brain treatment can help stroke patients recover better use of their hands by focusing on their unique brain activity patterns.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 1
Study typeInterventional
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment20 (estimated)
SponsorUniversity of Texas at Austin
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Austin, Texas)
StatusRecruiting
StartedFebruary 2, 2024
Main results expectedMarch 31, 2026
Study endsMarch 31, 2026
Registry record updatedFebruary 10, 2025
Trial IDNCT06365099 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates are individuals with residual upper extremity hemiparesis following a stroke that occurred at least six months prior.

Probably not a fit

Patients with a history of neurological diseases other than stroke or those with contraindications to TMS may not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study investigates the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to enhance recovery of hand motor function in stroke patients by targeting specific brain activity patterns. Researchers have developed a machine learning framework that identifies personalized brain states associated with strong corticospinal tract (CST) activation. Participants will undergo two days of testing to evaluate their brain activity and the integrity of their CST pathways. The goal is to optimize TMS delivery to maximize its effectiveness in promoting motor recovery.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to more effective rehabilitation strategies for stroke patients, improving their hand motor recovery.

How similar studies have gone: While this approach is novel in applying machine learning to personalize TMS for stroke recovery, similar studies have shown promise in enhancing motor function through targeted interventions.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
* Presence of residual upper extremity hemiparesis, defined as any of the following Fugl Meyer Upper Extremity Score \<66 Wolf Motor Function Test Score \<70 Affected hand performance on the 9-Hole Peg Test \>= 10% worse than unaffected hand Affected hand pinch, key, or power grip performance \>= 10% worse than unaffected hand
* Occurrence of ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke \>= 6 months before participation
* Willingness and ability to provide informed consent
* No history of neurological disease and/or neurological injury other than stroke
* No TMS contraindications, including but not limited to:

Cardiac pacemaker Cochlear implant Cortical stimulator Deep brain stimulator Vagus nerve stimulator Cervical spine epidural stimulation Ventriculoperitoneal shunt Ferromagnetic metallic implants above the level of the seventh cervical vertebra Seizure in the last 12 months while taking anti-epilepsy medication History of adverse reactions to TMS or peripheral nerve stimulation Current, suspected, or planned pregnancy Any recent changes (within the last month) to medication use

\- Presence of residual corticospinal connections innervating an affected upper extremity muscle following stimulation of the lesioned hemisphere (i.e., MEP+), evaluated at rest

Where it's running

  • University of Texas at Austin
    Austin, Texas, United States
    Recruiting

Similar studies

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How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.