Testing the Contribution of Orbitofrontal Cortex Networks to Decision-making in Healthy Subjects
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
This research study examines the contribution of orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) networks to decision-making.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
Yes, if you are currently using psychoactive medications or medications that increase the likelihood of seizures, you will need to stop taking them to participate in this trial.
What data supports the effectiveness of this treatment?
Research shows that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can influence decision-making and mood by affecting brain areas like the prefrontal cortex. For example, rTMS has been found to improve attentional control and response inhibition, which are important for decision-making. Additionally, the placebo effect in brain stimulation studies highlights the importance of expectation in perceived treatment benefits.12345
Is transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) safe for humans?
Research shows that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), including its variations like repetitive TMS (rTMS) and sham TMS, is generally safe and well-tolerated in humans. Some studies have noted side effects, but these are typically mild and include things like headaches or scalp discomfort.46789
How does transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) differ from other treatments for decision-making processes?
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is unique because it uses magnetic fields to stimulate specific areas of the brain, like the orbitofrontal cortex, to influence decision-making processes. Unlike traditional treatments that might involve medication, TMS is non-invasive and directly targets brain activity, potentially altering how decisions are made by affecting neural networks involved in risk-taking and valuation.45101112
Research Team
Christina Zelano, PhD
Principal Investigator
Assistant Professor
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for healthy individuals aged 18-40, right-handed, fluent in English. It's not suitable for those on seizure-risk meds, with a history of fainting or eating disorders, metal implants, significant illnesses like cancer or heart disease, severe allergies or asthma requiring hospitalization, habitual smokers, hearing issues, claustrophobia, high stroke risk factors (like hypertension), psychoactive medication users or major psychiatric conditions.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive TMS targeting either anterior or posterior OFC networks, combined with fMRI and olfactory stimuli
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for decision-making behavior and resting-state activity after intervention
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Real transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) before conditioning
- Real transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) before devaluation test
- Sham transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)
Real transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) before conditioning is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada for the following indications:
- Major depressive disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Migraines
- Smoking cessation
- Major depressive disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Major depressive disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Northwestern University
Lead Sponsor