Improve movement through brain stimulation

Trial ID
NCT06297538
Official Title
Targeting the Motor Cortex in Parkinson's Disease by Gamma-transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation: Pathophysiological and Therapeutic Implications
Goal
Improve movement through brain stimulation
Phase
NA
Status
RECRUITING
Sponsor
Neuromed IRCCS
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
84 participants
Conditions
Parkinson Disease
Interventions
gamma transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), sham transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS)

Plain-Language Summary

The goal is to test whether boosting gamma-frequency brain rhythms over the motor cortex can normalize abnormal motor network activity and improve movement in Parkinson's disease. The approach uses gamma transcranial alternating current stimulation, a noninvasive method that applies a very weak, rhythmic electrical current through the scalp to entrain gamma oscillations in the motor cortex, with participants randomized to real or sham tACS so effects can be compared. It is a non-drug, add-on strategy that aims to change cortical excitability and plasticity and could complement levodopa rather than replace it; people taking other drugs that affect brain excitability are excluded. The trial is open to adults 18 and older with Parkinson's, excluding those with severe cognitive or psychiatric issues, Hoehn and Yahr stage above 3, a tremor-dominant phenotype or levodopa-induced dyskinesia, or any contraindication to noninvasive brain stimulation.

Locations

  • IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this trial testing?
This trial is studying gamma transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS). The goal is to test whether boosting gamma-frequency brain rhythms over the motor cortex can normalize abnormal motor network activity and improve movement in Parkinson's disease. The approach uses gamma transcranial alternating current stimulation, a noninvasive method that applies a very weak, rhythmic electrical current through the scalp to entrain gamma oscillations in the motor cortex, with participants randomized to real or sham tACS so effects can be compared. It is a non-drug, add-on strategy that aims to change cortical excitability and plasticity and could complement levodopa rather than replace it; people taking other drugs that affect brain excitability are excluded. The trial is open to adults 18 and older with Parkinson's, excluding those with severe cognitive or psychiatric issues, Hoehn and Yahr stage above 3, a tremor-dominant phenotype or levodopa-induced dyskinesia, or any contraindication to noninvasive brain stimulation.
Who can participate?
Participants must be at least 18 Years.
Where is this trial located?
This trial is recruiting at 1 location.
Does it cost anything to join?
No. There is no cost to participate. Study-related care and treatment are provided at no charge.
How long does the trial last?
This trial is estimated to last approximately 1 year and 6 months.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov