NCT07762365 · General Neuro Inc.
Brain Stimulation Paired With Structured Reading Instruction in Children With Dyslexia
What this study is about
This study investigates whether transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) delivered during structured reading instruction affects reading proficiency in children with developmental dyslexia and related reading disabilities.
View original scientific description
This study investigates whether transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) delivered during structured reading instruction affects reading proficiency in children with developmental dyslexia and related reading disabilities. Children aged 7 to 17 who have been identified as having dyslexia or reading difficulties are randomly assigned in equal numbers to receive either active stimulation or sham (placebo) stimulation while completing structured reading instruction. Participants wear a non-invasive transcranial electrical stimulation headset that delivers a low-level electrical current through electrodes resting on the scalp. Sessions typically last 20 to 30 minutes and may take place at home or in person at a participating site. A trained adult is present and supervising for every session. Reading proficiency is measured with standardized assessments before and after the intervention period. A follow-up assessment may be conducted up to 12 months after the intervention ends. The device used in this study is investigational and has not been approved or cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Interventions
DEVICE
Active transcranial electrical stimulation (tES)
Non-invasive transcranial electrical stimulation delivered by a scalp-mounted headset within the LOTES-2023 limited-output envelope, paired with structured reading instruction. Pediatric declared range 0 to 2 mA average absolute current, maximum current density 2 mA/cm2 at the electrode contact area, maximum session duration 60 minutes subject to a 6000 mC per-session total charge limit, and a maximum of 30 total sessions per participant. Electrodes are placed in standard cephalic or extracephalic montages targeting cortical regions implicated in reading networks. The device is investigational and is not approved or cleared by the U.S. FDA.
DEVICE
Sham transcranial electrical stimulation (tES)
Sham stimulation delivered by the same scalp-mounted headset, providing the initial cutaneous sensory experience of stimulation onset without sustained current delivery, paired with the same structured reading instruction. The specific validated sham approach is selected per cohort and documented in the corresponding cohort plan.
Primary outcome measures
Change from baseline in TOWRE-2 Total Word Reading Efficiency index
Time frame: Baseline to end of intervention period, up to 10 weeks
Change in the Total Word Reading Efficiency index of the Test of Word Reading Efficiency, Second Edition (TOWRE-2), a timed measure of word reading efficiency administered by a qualified practitioner. Scores are reported as age-normed standard scores with a mean of 100 and a standard deviation of 15. Higher scores indicate greater word reading efficiency.
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
- Children aged 7 to 17 years inclusive
- Diagnosed with developmental dyslexia or related reading disability, OR exhibiting reading difficulties consistent with developmental dyslexia (for example, performing below the participant's expected grade level on a standardized reading assessment), as identified by the participant's educator, reading practitioner, caregiver, or clinician. A formal clinical diagnosis is not required for enrollment.
- Concurrently receiving or able to receive structured reading instruction during the intervention period
- Parent or legal guardian able and willing to provide informed permission
- Participant able and willing to provide age-appropriate assent
Exclusion criteria
- History of epilepsy or any seizure disorder
- Active skin disease, open wounds, or significant skin irritation at electrode contact sites
- Implanted electronic medical devices where stimulation would be contraindicated per device manufacturer guidance or investigator judgment after individual risk assessment
- Significant cognitive impairment beyond reading-related difficulties that would interfere with assent or study participation
- Any other condition that, in the investigator's judgment, would compromise participant safety or the integrity of the study data
Where
- Boston, Massachusetts
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 Aug 13, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations