taVNS for Dyslexia
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial examines whether a gentle nerve stimulation technique, known as transcutaneous auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation (taVNS), can help adolescents with dyslexia improve their letter-learning skills. The technique uses a device to deliver low-level stimulation to a nerve in the ear, potentially enhancing the brain's response to letters. Participants will undergo several short training sessions to determine if this method eases the process of learning new letters. The trial seeks teens diagnosed with dyslexia who are not taking medications other than those for ADHD. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity for participants to contribute to innovative research that could lead to new learning strategies for dyslexia.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but it does allow medications prescribed for ADHD.
What prior data suggests that this device is safe for adolescents with dyslexia?
Research has shown that transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) is generally safe. Participants in studies have tolerated it well. Most side effects, such as mild skin irritation, are minor and temporary. No evidence indicates serious harm from using taVNS. In summary, based on current data, taVNS appears to be a safe treatment option.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Most treatments for dyslexia focus on educational interventions and behavioral therapies to improve reading skills. But the taVNS (transcutaneous auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation) approach is different because it targets the brain's neural pathways directly. Researchers are excited about taVNS because it uses a gentle electrical current to stimulate the vagus nerve, potentially enhancing the brain's ability to form new connections during learning. This is a novel mechanism compared to traditional methods, and it could offer a non-invasive, quick-acting option for improving literacy in people with dyslexia.
What evidence suggests that taVNS is effective for improving letter-learning in dyslexia?
Research has shown that transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) might aid learning and memory. One study found that taVNS improved reading skills in adults, suggesting it might also assist with learning letters. Another study discovered that individuals who received this stimulation had slightly better reading comprehension scores than those who did not. While these results are promising, the effects may vary depending on the type of mental task. In this trial, participants will receive either active taVNS or sham taVNS to explore its potential to help teenagers with dyslexia learn letters.56789
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adolescents with dyslexia who can read at a certain level (scores above or below 90 on reading measures) and have normal non-verbal IQ. It's not for those with other neurological conditions like autism or epilepsy, nor for those taking medications besides ADHD prescriptions.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive six 30-minute lessons to learn novel letter-sound relationships while receiving either active or sham taVNS
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including fMRI assessments
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- active taVNS
- sham taVNS
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Florida
Lead Sponsor