Using fMRI neurofeedback to help manage Parkinson's disease
MOTOR-NF - a Randomized Controlled Trial of FMRI-based Neurofeedback for Motor Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease
NA · Maastricht University Medical Center · NCT06582355
This study is testing whether using brain training with fMRI can help people with Parkinson's disease improve their movement and manage their symptoms better.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Maastricht University Medical Center (other) |
| Locations | 2 sites (Cologne and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06582355 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study explores the use of neurofeedback, a technique that allows patients to self-regulate brain activity, in individuals with Parkinson's disease. By utilizing real-time functional MRI (fMRI) signals, patients will learn to enhance their motor functions through mental imagery and self-regulation strategies. The goal is to provide a non-invasive alternative to traditional treatments, such as medication and deep brain stimulation, which may not be effective for all patients. The study aims to assess the feasibility and potential clinical benefits of this innovative approach.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older diagnosed with Parkinson's disease at stages 1-3 according to the Hoehn and Yahr Scale.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions that interfere with MRI data acquisition or those with a history of severe psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could offer a new, non-invasive treatment option for patients with Parkinson's disease who do not respond well to existing therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary data from similar studies suggest that neurofeedback may provide clinical benefits, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of Parkinson's disease. * Disease stage 1-3 according to the Hoehn and Yahr Scale * Age: 18 years or more Exclusion Criteria: * Exclusion criteria for MRI (e.g., cardiac pacemaker, certain metallic implants) * History of psychotic disorder, bipolar disorder, or psychotic depression * Current use of illegal drugs (any in the last four weeks) * Current excessive alcohol consumption that interferes with daily functioning * A score on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) below 24/30. * Any disorder that would interfere with accurate and usable data acquisition.
Where this trial is running
Cologne and 1 other locations
- Uniklinik Köln — Cologne, Germany (NOT_YET_RECRUITING)
- Maastricht University — Maastricht, Netherlands (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: David EJ Linden, Prof. — Maastricht University
- Study coordinator: David EJ Linden, Prof.
- Email: david.linden@maastrichtuniversity.nl
- Phone: +31 43 3881021
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.
Conditions: Parkinson Disease, Neurofeedback, fMRI