Brain Imaging for Speech Learning
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to explore how different parts of the brain contribute to learning and remembering speech movements. Researchers use transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to temporarily disrupt brain activity and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to identify active brain areas during learning. Participants will be divided into groups to compare normal and altered auditory feedback during speech tasks as part of the adaptation process. This trial suits fluent English speakers who are right-handed, have normal hearing, and no history of speech disorders. As an unphased study, this trial offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research on brain function and speech learning.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial excludes participants who are taking psychoactive medications, so you may need to stop taking those if you are currently on them. The protocol does not specify about other types of medications.
What prior data suggests that this protocol is safe for participants?
Research has shown that altered auditory feedback, part of the treatment under study, is generally safe for participants. Studies have examined its effects on brain activity and found no serious safety concerns. For example, one study examined how altered feedback changes brain patterns during speech and reported no major safety issues.
Another study investigated whether this type of feedback might slow down speech or cause speech errors, but these effects were temporary and not harmful. Overall, research suggests that altered auditory feedback is well-tolerated and does not pose significant risks to participants.
In this trial, participants will also undergo fMRI scans. These scans are commonly used in research and are considered safe for most people. They create detailed images of brain activity without using radiation. As always, those considering joining a trial should discuss any concerns with the research team.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores how altered auditory feedback, combined with brain imaging techniques like fMRI, might enhance speech learning. Unlike standard treatments that primarily focus on repetition and speech therapy exercises, this approach aims to understand the brain's functional connectivity patterns that predict learning success. By assessing how different brain regions communicate during learning and retention, researchers hope to uncover new insights into speech acquisition, potentially leading to more effective and personalized interventions in the future.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for speech learning?
This trial will compare altered auditory feedback with a control condition to study its effects on speech learning. Research has shown that changing how individuals hear their own speech can significantly affect speech learning and control. When auditory feedback is altered, speakers often adjust their speech, underscoring the importance of hearing in learning to speak. Studies have found that altering auditory feedback can also change brain activity, indicating that the brain actively adapts to improve speech. Additionally, changes in auditory feedback have been linked to smoother and more consistent speech. These findings suggest that altering auditory feedback might enhance understanding and improvement of speech learning and memory.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
David Ostry
Principal Investigator
Yale University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals who are interested in participating in research about speech. There are specific criteria to join, but they aren't listed here.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Speech Motor Learning
Participants perform learning tasks with altered auditory feedback and undergo fMRI. This session lasts 30 minutes.
Retention Assessment
Participants return 24 hours later to assess retention of learning using fMRI and other measures.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after the main trial activities
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Adaptation
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Yale University
Lead Sponsor
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD)
Collaborator