TMS for Mild Cognitive Impairment
(NetTMS Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial uses magnetic stimulation to target brain areas identified through MRI scans. It focuses on adults with mild cognitive impairment, aiming to improve memory by enhancing brain connectivity and function. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has been shown to improve cognitive function in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that participants do not use medications known to lower the seizure threshold or affect working memory. If you are taking such medications, you may need to stop them to participate.
Is TMS safe for humans?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) has been studied in various conditions, including Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment, and is generally considered safe for humans. However, the specific safety profile can vary depending on the individual and the condition being treated, so it's important to discuss potential risks with a healthcare provider.12345
How is the treatment Network-guided TMS different from other treatments for mild cognitive impairment?
Network-guided TMS is unique because it uses brain imaging to tailor the treatment to each individual's brain network, potentially improving its effectiveness by targeting specific areas affected by mild cognitive impairment. This personalized approach is different from traditional treatments that do not account for individual brain differences.13467
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment for mild cognitive impairment?
Research suggests that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can improve cognitive symptoms in people with mild cognitive impairment by altering brain network connections. This approach has shown potential in enhancing cognitive performance in conditions related to Alzheimer's disease.12346
Who Is on the Research Team?
Simon W Davis, PhD
Principal Investigator
Duke University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for English-speaking adults aged 55-80 with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) who can consent to the study and are willing to use birth control if applicable. It's not for those with a history of substance abuse, pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with certain mental disorders, intracranial implants, pacemakers, seizure risks, significant head trauma or neurological conditions like dementia.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Assessment
Participants complete neuropsychological tests and provide a saliva sample for APOE genotype determination
Initial MRI Scanning
Participants undergo an initial MRI scanning session to collect data for network-based targeting
Treatment
Participants undergo combined TMS-fMRI sessions to assess the effects of network-based TMS on memory performance
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in neurovascular reactivity, structural connectivity, and episodic memory task performance
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Network-guided TMS
Network-guided TMS is already approved in United States, European Union for the following indications:
- Resistant depression
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Migraine
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Duke University
Lead Sponsor
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Collaborator