Electrical Stimulation for Learning and Memory in Alzheimer's and Primary Progressive Aphasia
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new treatment for Alzheimer's patients using a gentle electrical brain stimulation combined with memory exercises. It aims to help those who struggle with memory or language by improving brain cell connections. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) has shown positive effects on memory, verbal fluency, and affective behavior in Alzheimer's patients in previous studies.
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.
Is non-invasive brain stimulation safe for humans?
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS), including its high-definition version (HD-tDCS), is generally considered safe in humans, with no serious adverse effects reported in over 33,200 sessions across various populations, including the elderly. However, some studies suggest potential risks, so caution is advised.12345
How is the treatment Active HD-tDCS different from other treatments for Alzheimer's disease?
Active HD-tDCS is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that uses small, high-definition electrodes to deliver electrical currents to specific brain areas, which may improve cognitive function in Alzheimer's patients. Unlike traditional drug treatments, it does not involve medication and is designed to be more comfortable than conventional tDCS methods.46789
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment for Alzheimer's Disease?
Who Is on the Research Team?
Kyrana Tsapkini, PhD
Principal Investigator
Johns Hopkins University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for right-handed individuals aged 50-75 with a high-school education, proficient in English, and diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease or Primary Progressive Aphasia. They must have cognitive impairment consistent with AD biomarkers but no history of brain injuries like stroke or tumors.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment Period 1
Participants receive active HD-tDCS + Word List Learning Intervention (WordLLI) or Sham + WordLLI for 2 weeks, with 5 learning sessions per week
Washout
A 3-month stimulation-free washout period between the two treatment periods
Treatment Period 2
Participants receive the alternate condition (active HD-tDCS + WordLLI or Sham + WordLLI) for 2 weeks, with 5 learning sessions per week
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment with evaluations at 1 month and 3 months post each treatment period
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Active HD-tDCS
- Sham
- Word List Learning Intervention (WordLLI)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Johns Hopkins University
Lead Sponsor
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Collaborator