Using real-time brain imaging to understand self-generated experiences
Real-time fMRI for Insular Cortex Brain State-triggered Experience Sampling
NA · Drexel University · NCT05855525
This study is testing how brain activity in young adults relates to their personal experiences to see if certain brain signals make those experiences feel more intense and vivid.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 35 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Drexel University (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) |
| Trial ID | NCT05855525 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study employs a novel approach called real-time functional MRI (fMRI)-triggered experience-sampling to investigate how spontaneous neural events in the dorsal anterior insular cortex (daIC) relate to self-generated experiences. Participants, aged 18-35, will undergo MRI scanning while reporting their experiences based on real-time brain activity analysis. The goal is to determine if daIC activation correlates with heightened arousal and vividness in self-reported experiences. The study aims to enhance our understanding of the brain's role in experience generation and its implications for psychiatric conditions.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are healthy adults aged 18-35 without a history of psychiatric or neurological disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of psychiatric or neurological disorders or those with contraindications for MRI will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into the neural mechanisms underlying self-generated experiences, potentially informing treatments for psychiatric disorders.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach is innovative, similar studies using fMRI for experience sampling have shown promise, suggesting potential for success.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age between 18-35 Exclusion Criteria: * History of psychiatric or neurological disorder * contraindication for MRI
Where this trial is running
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Drexel University — Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Aaron Kucyi, PhD — Drexel University
- Study coordinator: Tiara Bounyarith, BA
- Email: tb3344@drexel.edu
- Phone: 2155537124
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: Healthy