Transcranial Focused Ultrasound for Neurocognitive Disorder
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores a new noninvasive treatment called transcranial focused ultrasound (tFUS), aimed at improving memory in people with mild neurocognitive disorder (mNCD). The study will test tFUS on different parts of the brain to determine which area responds best. It seeks participants aged 50-85 who have been diagnosed with mNCD in the past two years and have a partner or caregiver they see at least weekly. As a Phase 1 trial, the research focuses on understanding how the treatment works in people, offering participants the opportunity to be among the first to receive this innovative treatment.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
You may need to stop taking daily or weekly anticholinergic or sedative medications. However, you can continue using cholinesterase inhibitors, NMDA receptor antagonists, and antidepressants if you have been on a stable dose for at least 4 weeks before joining the trial.
What prior data suggests that transcranial focused ultrasound is safe for improving memory in neurocognitive disorders?
Research has shown that transcranial focused ultrasound (tFUS) is generally safe and well-tolerated. In studies using tFUS to stimulate the brain, most participants did not experience serious side effects. Some reported mild symptoms like slight headaches or dizziness, but these were temporary and not severe. Experts have developed guidelines to ensure safe use and minimize risks. As tFUS continues to be tested for this specific purpose, more information is needed to fully understand its safety. However, current results are promising regarding its overall safety for participants.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatment?
Researchers are excited about transcranial focused ultrasound for neurocognitive disorders because it offers a non-invasive approach that targets specific brain areas without the need for medication. Unlike traditional treatments such as medications or cognitive therapies, which can take weeks to show effects, focused ultrasound could potentially deliver faster results by directly stimulating brain regions involved in cognitive functions. This method also minimizes side effects typically associated with pharmaceuticals, making it a promising alternative for patients. By precisely directing ultrasound waves to different brain locations, researchers hope to better understand and improve cognitive processes in affected individuals.
What evidence suggests that transcranial focused ultrasound could be an effective treatment for neurocognitive disorder?
Research has shown that transcranial focused ultrasound (tFUS) could aid memory and thinking problems, such as those seen in dementia. One study found that 62.5% of patients improved significantly in at least one cognitive area. Another study with Alzheimer's patients showed that tFUS enhanced their thinking skills after just two weeks of treatment. This treatment also maintained their cognitive abilities for up to a year without causing harmful side effects. In this trial, participants will receive tFUS targeted to different brain locations to evaluate its effects on neurocognitive disorders. These findings suggest that tFUS might improve memory and thinking in individuals with brain-related disorders.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Kevin Caulfield, PhD
Principal Investigator
Medical University of South Carolina
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults aged 50-85 who speak English as their first language and have the ability to consent. It's aimed at those without a diagnosis of mild neurocognitive disorder (mNCD) or dementia, focusing on healthy aging individuals.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive transcranial focused ultrasound (tFUS) to the hippocampus to examine effects on memory
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Transcranial Focused Ultrasound
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Medical University of South Carolina
Lead Sponsor
National Center of Neuromodulation for Rehabilitation
Collaborator