NCT06738030 · Boston University Charles River Campus
Transcranial Stimulation Combined With Auditory Training
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if non-invasive brain stimulation (called transcranial stimulation) can enhance the benefits from auditory training in people who struggle to understand one talker when many people are talking at the same time.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if non-invasive brain stimulation (called transcranial stimulation) can enhance the benefits from auditory training in people who struggle to understand one talker when many people are talking at the same time. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Does transcranial stimulation improve speech-on-speech understanding in people who struggle with this task? * Does transcranial stimulation enhance the benefits of a commercially available auditory training program? Researchers will compare transcranial stimulation to sham stimulation (no stimulation is applied during the listening task).
Interventions
DEVICE
Transcranial current stimulation
The transcranial alternating current stimulation is delivered during the speech stimulus and the current matches the envelope of the target speech
BEHAVIORAL
Auditory training
An at-home auditory training program that adaptively and interactively trains the listener in degraded speech, cognitive skills, and communication strategies
Primary outcome measures
Speech-on-speech intelligibility percent correct
Time frame: From enrollment to the end of participation at 6 weeks
Percent correct score on the speech-on-speech task assessed in the lab
Pupillometry measured listening effort
Time frame: From enrollment to the end of participation at 6 weeks
The peak pupil dilation subtracted from pre-trial baseline pupil dilation, averaged across trials in a block, assessed in the lab
QuickSIN SNR Loss
Time frame: Days 1, 6, and 14 of the two-week auditory training
A speech-in-noise test assessed as part of the at-home auditory training program
Hearing Handicap Inventory
Time frame: Days 1 and 14 of the two-week auditory training program
A listening effort questionnaire given as part of the at-home auditory training program
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
- 50 years of age or older
- Audiometric thresholds that do not exceed 90 dB HL at any frequency from 250-6000 Hz
- Able to provide informed consent and understand experimental instructions
- Able to read print on a computer screen
- Difficulty with speech-on-speech understanding
- Access to computer or mobile phone with access to internet that can play sound (for the at-home training)
Exclusion criteria
- Non-native speakers of English
- History of skull fracture, scalp tissue damage, metallic implants around the head, seizures, neurological disorders, or traumatic brain injury, current or suspected pregnancy
Where
- Boston, Massachusetts
Collaborators
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD)
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 Jul 29, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations