BCI Therapy for Stroke
(ANIMATOR Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how BCI therapy, which uses brain-computer interface technology, can assist people who have had a stroke and continue to struggle with severe arm movement issues. Researchers compare it to a standard attention-based therapy to determine which is more effective. Participants will join either the RehUp BCI Intervention group or a control therapy group, attending 24 sessions over eight weeks. This trial suits stroke survivors who have experienced significant arm problems for at least six months and find it difficult to use the affected arm in daily life. As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of people.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that the RehUp BCI Intervention is safe for stroke patients?
Research has shown that brain-computer interface (BCI) therapy, such as the RehUp BCI Intervention, is safe for aiding stroke recovery. Studies have found that patients can undergo BCI training without major safety concerns, making it a promising method for helping stroke patients regain movement.
Earlier trials consistently showed that BCI therapy does not cause serious side effects, and most patients tolerate it well. While minor side effects may occur, they are typically manageable. The treatment remains under study to confirm these findings, but current data is encouraging.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising?
Researchers are excited about the RehUp BCI intervention for stroke recovery because it taps into brain-computer interface (BCI) technology, a cutting-edge approach not commonly used in conventional stroke therapy. Unlike standard rehabilitation methods that focus on physical exercises, this treatment uses BCI to directly engage and retrain the brain's neural pathways, potentially enhancing neuroplasticity and recovery. The technology offers a novel way to aid the brain in regaining control over motor functions, offering hope for improved outcomes in stroke rehabilitation.
What evidence suggests that the RehUp BCI intervention is effective for stroke recovery?
This trial will compare the RehUp BCI intervention with a control therapy. Studies have shown that Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) therapy can improve movement in stroke patients. Research indicates that BCI treatments, such as the RehUp BCI program, help the brain and muscles collaborate more effectively. A review of studies found that BCI-based rehabilitation successfully improves movement after a stroke. Specifically, one study showed that using BCI with motor imagery (imagining movement) enhances arm and hand function in individuals with stroke-related difficulties. Overall, BCI therapy shows promise for aiding movement recovery after a stroke.14678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Sean P Dukelow, MD PhD FRCPC
Principal Investigator
University of Calgary
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
The ANIMATOR trial is for individuals in the chronic phase of stroke recovery who have moderate to severe difficulty moving their arms. Specific details about who can join or reasons someone might not be eligible are not provided.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Pilot
10 consecutive days of intervention for initial testing of BCI therapy
Randomized Treatment
Participants receive either BCI robotic therapy or control therapy over 8 weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- RehUp BCI Intervention
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Calgary
Lead Sponsor
VIBRAINT Inc.
Collaborator