Investigating HD-tDCS in Improving Word Finding and Memory Retrieval in Individuals With MCI

The University of Texas at Dallas

Overview

This study is attempting to improve word finding and memory retrieval problems persons with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) may have.

This study attempts to improve word finding and memory retrieval problems in persons with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). To remember and find words, the brain has to search for the correct memory and MCI can negatively affect this search. Studies have suggested that low level electrical stimulation of the memory retrieval circuit can improve memory recall. The purpose of this study is to find the exact influence of multi-electrode or High Definition transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (HD-tDCS) by targeting a frontal and a parietal brain area, and their roles in memory retrieval/word finding in MCI. By modulating ongoing activity in 6 sessions of HD-tDCS the study investigates whether HD-tDCS may be used as a way to improve memory retrieval/word finding evaluated by cognitive measures and electroencephalography (EEG) measures before the first session and after the last session of HD-tDCS with a follow-up session 1-month after the stimulation procedure.

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

BASIC_SCIENCE

Masking

DOUBLE

Conditions

Mild Cognitive Impairment

Interventions

Active frontalDEVICE

1\) active HD-tDCS will be administered

Active parietalDEVICE

2\) active HD-tDCS will be administered

ShamDEVICE

3\) sham HD-tDCS - no current

Eligibility

Sex: ALLMin age: 40 YearsMax age: 90 Years

Medical Language ↔ Plain English

Inclusion Criteria: 1. Age between 40 and 90 2. Capable of understanding and signing an informed consent 3. Experiencing severe memory problems Exclusion Criteria: 1. Severe organic co-morbidity 2. Pace maker / defibrillator 3. Pregnancy

Locations (1)

University of Texas at Dallas

Richardson, Texas, United States

Outcomes

Primary Outcomes

Memory retrieval/word finding assessment.

Changes in cognitive performance are compared between the 3 groups to investigate the influence of HD-tDCS on memory retrieval/word finding.

Time frame: Baseline (before the first HD-tDCS session), immediate post (immediately after the last HD-tDCS session) and 1 month follow up (1 month after the last HD-tDCS session)

Secondary Outcomes

Electroencephalography (EEG).

Brain activity is recorded with electroencephalography (EEG) and is compared between the 3 groups to investigate the influence of HD-tDCS on memory retrieval/word finding.

Time frame: Baseline (before the first HD-tDCS session), immediate post (immediately after the last HD-tDCS session) and 1 month follow up (1 month after the last HD-tDCS session)

Data from ClinicalTrials.gov

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