Using brain stimulation to improve language function in primary progressive aphasia

Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) on Inhibition and Brain Function in Primary Progressive Aphasia

NA · Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice · NCT06473714

This study is testing whether a type of brain stimulation can help improve language skills in people with primary progressive aphasia.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorCentre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice (other)
Locations1 site (Nice)
Trial IDNCT06473714 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on brain function and inhibition in individuals diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia (PPA). By applying a small electrical current to the scalp, the study aims to enhance neuronal activity in targeted brain regions associated with language processing. Participants will undergo treatment sessions to assess changes in their language abilities and executive functions compared to a control group. The research seeks to explore the potential for neuroplasticity in the brains of individuals with PPA.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are right-handed adults over 18 years old with a diagnosis of primary progressive aphasia who can read and speak French.

Not a fit: Patients with severe cognitive or language disorders, neurodevelopmental or non-degenerative neurological disorders, or those with contraindications to tDCS may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved language function and quality of life for patients with primary progressive aphasia.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of tDCS in language disorders is an emerging field, there have been promising results in similar studies exploring its effects on cognitive functions.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Be a male or female over the age of 18 with a primary progressive aphasia diagnosis
* Available for treatment and testing sessions
* able to read and speak French
* Be right-handed

Exclusion Criteria:

* Presence of neurodevelopmental disorders or non-degenerative neurological disorders
* Post-stroke aphasia
* Language or cognitive disorders too severe to allow task performance or communication
* Pre-existing psychiatric disorders; severe depression, schizophrenia
* People with pacemakers or metal implants, epilepsy
* Presence of a medical condition that represents a contraindication to tDCS
* Active use of psychotropic drugs
* Treatment with tDCS or TMS in the last 3 months
* Additional language therapy
* Pregnancy or breast-feeding

Where this trial is running

Nice

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Aphasia, Primary Progressive

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.