Auditory Stimulation for Epilepsy
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This study will investigate the role of coordinated brain rhythms during sleep in memory consolidation and determine whether playing precisely timed brief bursts of noise can enhance these rhythms and improve memory in epilepsy inpatients with implanted hippocampal electrodes.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
Is auditory stimulation safe for humans?
How does auditory stimulation differ from other treatments for epilepsy?
Auditory stimulation for epilepsy is unique because it uses specific music to activate the brain and reduce seizures, unlike traditional treatments that often involve medication. This non-drug approach, known as the 'Mozart effect', has shown promise in reducing seizure frequency and improving quality of life in some patients.12346
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Auditory Stimulation for Epilepsy?
Research shows that music therapy, a form of sound therapy, has been effective for conditions like chronic pain and tinnitus, suggesting it might also help with epilepsy. Additionally, auditory training has shown benefits in improving behavior and sensory responses in children with autism, indicating potential positive effects for other neurological conditions.7891011
Who Is on the Research Team?
Dara Manoach, PhD
Principal Investigator
Professor
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for English-speaking epilepsy patients aged 12-65 who are inpatients with implanted hippocampal electrodes and can consent to the study. It's not suitable for those with intellectual disabilities affecting task performance, anticipated surgery that could affect sleep oscillations, or motor issues preventing finger tapping tasks.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Night
Participants undergo baseline sleep monitoring with implanted hippocampal electrodes and continuous scalp EEG
Memory Night
Participants are assessed for sleep-dependent memory consolidation with the finger tapping motor sequence task (MST) with training prior to sleep and testing the next morning
Stimulation Night
Participants receive auditory stimulation during sleep to enhance memory consolidation, with training on the MST before sleep and testing the next morning
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in sleep and memory performance after the intervention
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Auditory Stimulation
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Massachusetts General Hospital
Lead Sponsor