Using non-invasive brain stimulation to improve working memory in epilepsy patients
Traveling Wave Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation for the Control of Large-Scale Brain Networks
This study is testing if a new type of brain stimulation can help people with epilepsy who have had surgery to improve their working memory.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 16 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Minnesota Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Minneapolis, Minnesota) |
| Trial ID | NCT04680481 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This project aims to evaluate the feasibility of using traveling wave transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) to enhance working memory performance and modify large-scale brain connectivity in patients with surgically implanted electrodes for epilepsy evaluation. The study will involve administering tACS to assess its effects on cognitive function in this specific patient population. By focusing on surgical epilepsy patients, the research seeks to explore innovative non-invasive methods to potentially improve cognitive outcomes.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who have or are scheduled for surgically implanted electrodes for epilepsy evaluation.
Not a fit: Patients who have diminished capacity to consent will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved working memory and cognitive function in patients with epilepsy.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of using traveling wave tACS is novel, similar non-invasive brain stimulation techniques have shown promise in enhancing cognitive functions in other studies.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. the patient can consent for themselves; 2. the patient has or is scheduled for surgically implanted electrodes for the purposes of phase II epilepsy surgical evaluation; 3. age 18+ years old; Exclusion Criteria: 1. diminished capacity to consent;
Where this trial is running
Minneapolis, Minnesota
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Alexander Opitz, PhD — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Alexander Opitz, PhD
- Email: aopitz@umn.edu
- Phone: 612-624-1094
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.