NCT07433023 · Shirley Ryan AbilityLab
tSCS and 5-Azacitidine for Enhanced Motor Outcomes in Cerebral Palsy
What this study is about
This is an intervention study to investigate the impact of spinal stimulation on mobility outcomes in children with Cerebral Palsy. Participants will complete a 16-week training program with weekly sessions of spinal stimulation and walking or activity-based training.
View original scientific description
This is an intervention study to investigate the impact of spinal stimulation on mobility outcomes in children with Cerebral Palsy. Participants will complete a 16-week training program with weekly sessions of spinal stimulation and walking or activity-based training. Participants will also have the option to participate in a randomized control trial to investigate the impact of 5-Azacitidine combined with the spinal stimulation to further affect mobility outcomes.
Interventions
OTHER
tSCS
Participants will participate in three 45 minute sessions per week for a total of 16 weeks involving transcutaneous spinal stimulation and activity based training. Stimulation intensity will be based on involuntary motor threshold, determined during a MEPs assessment.
DRUG
5-Azacitidine
A subset of opt-in participants will receive a single subcutaneous injection of 5-Azacitidine at a dose of 75 mg/m²
DRUG
Mannitol
A subset of opt-in participants will receive a single subcutaneous injection of Mannitol (placebo) at a dose of 75 mg/m².
OTHER
Functional Activity Training
All participants will engage in functional activity training based on Aim. Participants will participate in three 45 minute sessions per week for a total of 16 weeks involving transcutaneous spinal stimulation (tSCS) and activity based training. Participants in Aim 1 will complete gait training. Participants in Aim 2 will complete activity-based training.
Primary outcome measures
Spatiotemporal Gait Symmetry via Instrumented Gait-Mat
Time frame: Baseline to Follow-Up, approximately 22 weeks
For Aim 1 participants (GMFCS levels 1-3), an instrumented gait-mat will be used to assess spatiotemporal gait symmetry.
Modified Tardieu Scale
Time frame: Baseline to Follow-Up, approximately 22 weeks
For Aim 2 participants (GMFCS levels 4-5), muscle spasticity will be assessed using the Modified Tardieu Scale.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Diagnosis of cerebral palsy (CP) classified as Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) Levels I-V.
- Between 4 and 17 years old at the time of enrollment/consent.
- Diagnosis of spastic CP hemiplegia, diplegia, or quadriplegia.
- Stable medical condition as determined by the investigator.
- Adequate caregiver support to be able to participate in training and assessment sessions for the duration of the study, at the discretion of the Investigator.
- Capable of performing simple cued motor tasks and can follow 2-3 step commands.
- Capable of communicating an accurate yes or no answer to questions according to parent or guardian.
- Able to localize pain/ discomfort.
- Physician approval for participation.
- Parent/ guardian permission.
Exclusion criteria
- Concurrent neurological disease affecting the central nervous system.
- Cardiovascular or musculoskeletal disease or injury that would prevent full participation in physical therapy intervention
- Orthopedic dysfunction, injury, or surgery that would impact an individual's ability to use the upper and/or lower extremity
- Unhealed fracture or other musculoskeletal impairment that might interfere with upper or lower extremity rehabilitation or testing activities
- Implanted stimulator (e.g., epidural stimulator, vagus nerve stimulator, pacemaker, cochlear implant) or drug delivery device (e.g., baclofen pump)
- Dependence on an electro-magnetic medical implant (e.g., cardiac pacemaker, implanted drug pump), ventilation support, or another external device.
- History of uncontrolled seizures
- Unexplained presence of persistent complaints of pain of any kind
- Unable to localize pain/discomfort
- Severe cortico-visual impairment
- Active pressure sores
- Active urinary tract infection
- Active cancer or cancer in remission less than 5 years
- Clinically significant depression, psychiatric disorders, or ongoing drug abuse
- Immunodeficiency or hematologic condition
- Allergy to AZA or mannitol
- Plans to receive a vaccine within 30 days of the planned AZA or placebo injection to take place at week 10
- Orthopedic surgery completed in the prior 12 months
- Intrathecal medication titration that may affect muscle spasticity
- Botulinum toxin treatment within 3 months preceding enrollment unless given approval by the treating physician
- Current enrollment in a conflicting research study
- Any other health condition or diagnosis not listed above that may put the participant at risk as determined by the investigator or treating physician
Where
- Chicago, Illinois
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 29, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations