Active tDCS for Age-Related Macular Degeneration
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (a-tDCS) can help individuals with vision loss from age-related macular degeneration (AMD) or juvenile macular degeneration (JMD) improve their reading skills. Participants will receive either real brain stimulation or a placebo while practicing reading on a computer. The researchers seek to discover if combining brain stimulation with reading practice is more effective than reading practice alone. Ideal candidates have been diagnosed with AMD or JMD, notice central vision loss, and have had stable vision over the past three months. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance future treatments for vision loss.
Do I need to stop my current medications for this trial?
The trial protocol does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are receiving chronic and continuous injections for eye conditions, you may continue them if they have been ongoing for at least a year.
What prior data suggests that this brain stimulation technique is safe for people with macular degeneration?
Research has shown that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is usually easy for people to handle. This non-invasive technique has been tested for various health issues, including Alzheimer's disease and vision problems like age-related macular degeneration (AMD). In these studies, most participants experienced only minor side effects, such as a slight tingling on the scalp, while serious side effects were rare.
One study focused on using tDCS for vision problems and found that participants could safely receive the treatment without major issues. This finding suggests that tDCS might be a safe option for people with macular degeneration. However, experiences can differ from person to person, so discussing potential risks with a healthcare provider is always advisable.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Unlike the standard treatments for age-related macular degeneration, which often involve injections or laser therapies to manage symptoms, active anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) offers a non-invasive approach. This technique uses mild electrical currents to potentially enhance visual perception, targeting brain areas involved in visual processing rather than directly affecting the eyes. Researchers are excited about tDCS because it could improve visual function with fewer side effects and offer a more comfortable and accessible treatment option, especially for those who find current invasive treatments challenging.
What evidence suggests that this brain stimulation technique is effective for improving reading in macular degeneration?
Research has shown that anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (a-tDCS) might improve vision by reducing visual crowding, where objects appear jumbled. This could benefit individuals with macular degeneration, a condition affecting eyesight. In this trial, participants will join different treatment arms. Some will receive active anodal tDCS combined with specific visual exercises, while others will receive sham anodal tDCS with the same exercises. Studies have found that using a-tDCS safely at a low level of 2 mA can be effective. Early results suggest that combining a-tDCS with specific visual exercises might further enhance vision. This treatment aims to increase activity in the brain area responsible for vision, helping patients see details more clearly and read better.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Ben Thompson, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Waterloo
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with stable vision and diagnosed age-related macular degeneration (AMD) or juvenile macular degeneration (JMD), who have a visual acuity between 6/9-6/96 in the better eye. Participants must be fluent in English or Chinese characters, depending on location, and not have had recent ocular surgery except under specific conditions.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Testing
Participants complete baseline testing and clinical evaluation to confirm eligibility criteria
Treatment
Participants undergo 6 sessions of perceptual training with either active or sham brain stimulation
Post-test
Post-test outcome measures are collected without brain stimulation
Follow-up
30 days after the final training session, participants perform outcome measures to determine long-term benefits
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Active anodal tDCS
- Sham anodal tDCS
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Waterloo
Lead Sponsor
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Collaborator