Using brain activity patterns to improve hand recovery after stroke
Identifying Personalized Brain States Predicting Residual Corticospinal Tract Output After Stroke
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
| Phase | Phase 1 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Texas at Austin Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Austin, Texas) |
| Trial ID | NCT06365099 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals with residual upper extremity hemiparesis following a stroke that occurred at least six months prior.
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.
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 performed: 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.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
Austin, Texas
- University of Texas at Austin — Austin, Texas, United States (Recruiting)
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.