Near Infrared Stimulation for Parkinson's Disease
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
The current study will test whether age-related cognitive and mood changes in older adults and those will be affected by near infrared (NIR) stimulation. The overall hypothesis, drawn from previous literature, is that exposure to NIR stimulation will have positive effects on brain health and will result in better cognitive and mood performance.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not require you to stop taking your current medications as long as they are stable and you plan to continue them during the study. However, you cannot use antipsychotics, sedatives, or medications with significant anticholinergic properties, and you should not use photo-sensitive medications like steroids or retin-A within 15 days of the study.
Is near-infrared light therapy safe for humans?
How does Near Infrared Stimulation treatment for Parkinson's Disease differ from other treatments?
Near Infrared Stimulation (INS) is unique because it uses light instead of electricity to stimulate nerves, offering more precise targeting without the need for genetic modification. This method reduces the risk of side effects associated with traditional electrical stimulation by focusing the stimulation more accurately on the affected areas.678910
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Near Infrared Stimulation for Parkinson's Disease?
Who Is on the Research Team?
Dawn Bowers, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
University of Florida
Adam Woods, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
University of Florida
Gene Alexander, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
University of Arizona
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for older adults and those with Parkinson's disease who can commit to a 12-week intervention, have no dementia or cognitive impairment, are on stable medication doses, and can use a computer. Excluded are individuals with major brain abnormalities, unstable conditions, active cancer, significant sensory impairments preventing computer use, recent cognitive training participation or psychiatric disturbances.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive NIR stimulation through transcranial and intranasal methods, involving 16 lab sessions and daily at-home interventions over 12 weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for cognitive and mood changes post-treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Near Infrared Stimulation
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Florida
Lead Sponsor
McKnight Brain Research Foundation
Collaborator
University of Arizona
Collaborator