Using brain stimulation to improve memory in older adults with mild cognitive impairment
Adaptive Neuromodulation of Working Memory Networks in Aging and Dementia
This study is testing if a special brain stimulation technique can help older adults with mild cognitive impairment improve their memory.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 150 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 75 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Duke University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Durham, North Carolina) |
| Trial ID | NCT05460468 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This research aims to enhance working memory in older adults and those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) through closed-loop transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) targeted at the prefrontal cortex. The study will investigate how individualized brain networks can be used to optimize TMS parameters for better control of brain states. By measuring the effects of TMS on working memory performance and neural activity, the researchers hope to establish a reliable method for improving cognitive function in these populations. The approach addresses previous limitations in TMS efficacy by considering dynamic cognitive states and the influence of cerebrovascular health.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are English-speaking older adults with mild cognitive impairment who are willing to provide consent.
Not a fit: Patients with significant neurological disorders or those at increased risk of seizures may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved memory function and quality of life for patients with mild cognitive impairment.
How similar studies have performed: While some studies have shown promise in using TMS for cognitive enhancement, this specific closed-loop approach tailored to individual brain networks is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * English Speaking * Willing to provide consent Exclusion Criteria: * History of any Axis I DSM-V disorder, excluding major depressive disorder or generalized anxiety disorders * Current history of substance abuse or dependence (excluding nicotine) * Intracranial implants (e.g. aneurysms clips, shunts, stimulators, cochlear implants, or electrodes), cardiac pacemakers, or vagus Nerve stimulation device * Increased risk of seizure for any reason, including prior diagnosis of epilepsy, seizure disorder, increased intracranial pressure, or history of significant head trauma with loss of consciousness for ≥ 5 minutes. * Neurological disorder including, but not limited to: space occupying brain lesion; any history of seizures, history of cerebrovascular accident; fainting, cerebral aneurysm, Dementia, Hungtington chorea; Multiple Sclerosis. * Current use of medications known to lower the seizure threshold and/or affect working memory
Where this trial is running
Durham, North Carolina
- Duke University Hospital — Durham, North Carolina, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Simon W Davis, PhD — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Simon W Davis, PhD
- Email: simon.davis@duke.edu
- Phone: 9196841243
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.