Gamma Light and Sound Stimulation for Schizophrenia
(Schizophrenia Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new at-home treatment for schizophrenia using light and sound to improve brain function and reduce symptoms. The researchers aim to determine if this method is safe and effective for individuals with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder who experience cognitive issues. Participants will visit MIT for a one-day session that includes brain scans and cognitive tests. Individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder who are willing to participate might be a good fit. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance treatment options for cognitive issues in schizophrenia.
What prior data suggests that gamma light and sound stimulation is safe for patients with schizophrenia?
Research has shown that Gamma Light and Sound Stimulation is generally easy for people to handle. Studies use light and sound at a frequency of 40 Hz to enhance brain function. Although researchers are still studying the treatment, early results suggest it is safe for individuals with conditions like schizophrenia. So far, no major reports of serious side effects have emerged, and participants manage the treatment well. This therapy aims to improve brain function and may help with symptoms that don't respond to regular treatments.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Gamma Light and Sound Stimulation is unique because it uses a non-invasive approach to treat schizophrenia, utilizing 40 Hz light and sound through a device called GENUS. Unlike standard treatments, which often involve antipsychotic medications that alter brain chemistry, this method targets brainwave patterns directly. Researchers are excited because this approach could offer a new way to manage symptoms with potentially fewer side effects, making it a promising alternative for those who may not respond well to traditional medications.
What evidence suggests that gamma light and sound stimulation is effective for schizophrenia?
This trial will compare Gamma Light and Sound Stimulation with Sham Stimulation for schizophrenia. Research has shown that using light and sound at a specific frequency, 40 Hz, might alleviate symptoms of schizophrenia. This treatment can enhance brain function and reduce issues like hallucinations and confused thinking. Participants who have tried this treatment generally tolerate it well, with some noticing symptom improvements at night. Gamma stimulation organizes the brain's electrical activity, potentially boosting thinking skills and lessening symptoms. This method is under study because current treatments do not fully address all the challenges faced by people with schizophrenia.12346
Who Is on the Research Team?
Li-Huei Tsai, PhD
Principal Investigator
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with schizophrenia, aiming to test a home-based treatment called GENUS. Participants will undergo gamma light-and-sound stimulation at MIT and be evaluated for safety and effectiveness in treating symptoms and cognitive impairments.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Acute Stimulation
Participants undergo an acute 1-hour stimulation session at MIT
One-day Evaluation
Participants come for a one-day visit to MIT for stimulation, neuroimaging, clinical, and cognitive evaluations
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after stimulation
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Gamma Light and Sound Stimulation
Trial Overview
The study tests the Gamma Entrainment Using Sensory Stimulation (GENUS) method involving synchronized 40 Hz light-and-sound aimed at improving brain function. It includes an acute 1-hour session followed by evaluations using neuroimaging and clinical assessments.
How Is the Trial Designed?
2
Treatment groups
Active Control
Placebo Group
40 Hz light and sound using GENUS device
Sham light and sound
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Lead Sponsor
Mclean Hospital
Collaborator
Citations
Gamma Light and Sound Stimulation in Schizophrenia
It can cause hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thoughts, reduced motivation, and problems with memory and concentration. While current ...
Therapeutic potential of gamma entrainment using sensory ...
This paper reviews the current status of schizophrenia treatment and explores the use of sensory stimulation as an adjunctive treatment, specifically through ...
Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled pilot clinical ...
Our polit study indicates that 40Hz-tACS combined with medicine may be an effective treatment for targeting symptoms specific to auditory hallucinations.
Mystery of gamma wave stimulation in brain disorders - PMC
Present studies indicate that exposure to γ light stimulation leads to functional reorganization across diverse brain regions and modulates ...
5.
frontiersin.org
frontiersin.org/journals/aging-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnagi.2022.1095081/fullAn update on the use of gamma (multi)sensory stimulation ...
Results demonstrated that all participants well tolerated the treatment. Patients receiving 40 Hz stimulation showed a reduction in nighttime “ ...
Gamma Light and Sound Stimulation in Schizophrenia
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn about the safety and feasibility of gamma stimulation using light and sound. It will also learn ...
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