Using magnetic stimulation to influence reward learning
Modulating Reward Learning Using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
This study is testing if a type of brain stimulation can change how people make decisions based on rewards while they play a virtual game.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 28 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 55 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Newark, New Jersey) |
| Trial ID | NCT06323057 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study examines how transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) affects reward processing during decision-making tasks. Participants will undergo two sessions where they receive either active or sham TMS while engaging in a virtual T-maze task designed to measure their responses to rewards. The researchers aim to modulate brain activity related to reward feedback using TMS and assess its impact on participants' choices. The study employs a randomized control design to ensure robust results.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy adults aged 18 to 55 who can comply with study protocols.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of neurological disorders or severe mental health issues may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance our understanding of reward processing and lead to new interventions for behavioral conditions.
How similar studies have performed: While TMS has been used in various contexts, this specific application to modulate reward learning is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Be between the ages of 18 and 55 years old. * Be in stable mental and physical health. * If female, test non-pregnant. * Be willing to provide informed consent. * Be able to comply with protocol requirements and likely to complete all study procedures. Exclusion Criteria: * Contraindication to rTMS (history of neurological disorder or seizure, increased intracranial pressure, brain surgery, or head trauma with loss of consciousness for \> 15 minutes, implanted electronic device, metal in the head, or pregnancy). * History of autoimmune, endocrine, viral, or vascular disorder affecting the brain. * Life time history of mental disorders such as: Bipolar Affective disorder (BPAD), Schizophrenia, Post-traumatic Stress disorder (PTSD) or Dementia or Major Depression. * uninterruptable central nervous system medication
Where this trial is running
Newark, New Jersey
- Rutgers University - Newark — Newark, New Jersey, 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.