Using neurofeedback to enhance memory in people with mild cognitive impairment
Enhancing Gamma Band Response in Mild Cognitive Impairment to Improve Working Memory
This study is testing if a special type of brain training called gamma-neurofeedback can help improve memory in people with mild cognitive impairment.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 112 (estimated) |
| Ages | 50 Years to 85 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of California, San Diego Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (La Jolla, California) |
| Trial ID | NCT04566900 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial investigates the effectiveness of gamma-neurofeedback (G-NFB) in improving working memory among individuals diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either G-NFB or a placebo neurofeedback treatment over 12 weeks, with sessions occurring twice a week. Cognitive assessments will be conducted every four weeks to evaluate memory and other cognitive functions, both during and after the intervention period. The study aims to determine if targeted neurofeedback can positively influence cognitive decline associated with MCI.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment who are living independently and can provide informed consent.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions such as frontal temporal dementia, recent strokes, or those on certain medications affecting cognitive function may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could slow the progression of cognitive decline in patients with mild cognitive impairment.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using neurofeedback for cognitive enhancement, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Meet criteria for mild cognitive impairment (MCI). 2. Living independently. 3. Literate in English. 4. Competent to participate in the informed consent process and provide voluntary informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Frontal temporal dementia 2. Active alcohol or substance use disorder within the past year. 3. Brain cancer 4. Stroke within the last 2 years 5. Anti-epileptic medication 6. Prior head injury involving loss of consciousness 7. Seizure disorder 8. Use of medications likely to affect cognitive function (cf. donepezil, memantine). We will not exclude for other medications but will examine their effects and include medications as covariates as appropriate (e.g., presence v. absence; anticholinergic load). 9. The potential benefits of the study do not outweigh the potential risks of the study, as determined by the PI.
Where this trial is running
La Jolla, California
- University of California at San Diego — La Jolla, California, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Joshua Phillips, B.S.
- Email: j7phillips@health.ucsd.edu
- Phone: 858-267-2257
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.