NCT07224191 · NYU Langone Health
Hippocampal Oscillations During Exploration
What this study is about
The objective of this study is to determine how visuomotor exploration relates to hippocampal activity along its long axis. The study will investigate the neurophysiological mechanisms in the hippocampus during (1) visual exploration in surgical patients using high-resolution iEEG, and (2) ambulatory exploration in patients implanted with RNS devices.
View original scientific description
The objective of this study is to determine how visuomotor exploration relates to hippocampal activity along its long axis. The study will investigate the neurophysiological mechanisms in the hippocampus during (1) visual exploration in surgical patients using high-resolution iEEG, and (2) ambulatory exploration in patients implanted with RNS devices.
Interventions
OTHER
Visual Exploration
Cognitive testing while admitted to the epilepsy monitoring unit (number of sessions will vary depending on patient availability and stamina).
OTHER
Ambulatory Exploration
Series of cognitive tasks completed during a study visit.
Primary outcome measures
Hippocampal Theta Power Under High Cognitive Loads
Time frame: Study Visit (Day 1)
Aims 1 and 2. High cognitive loads defined as visual exploration of a complex scene with goal-driven task.
Hippocampal Theta Power Under Medium Cognitive Loads
Time frame: Study Visit (Day 1)
Aims 1 and 2. Medium cognitive loads defined as visual exploration of a simpler scene with fewer objects.
Hippocampal Theta Power Under Low Cognitive Loads
Time frame: Study Visit (Day 1)
Aims 1 and 2. Low cognitive loads defined as visual exploration of moving dots.
Hippocampal Theta Power Under No Cognitive Loads
Time frame: Study Visit (Day 1)
Aims 1 and 2. Low cognitive loads defined as staring at a blank field of view or REM sleep.
Coherence Time-Locked to the Saccade Under High Cognitive Loads
Time frame: Study Visit (Day 1)
Aims 1 and 2. High cognitive loads defined as visual exploration of a complex scene with goal-driven task.
Coherence Time-Locked to the Saccade Under Medium Cognitive Loads
Time frame: Study Visit (Day 1)
Aims 1 and 2. Medium cognitive loads defined as visual exploration of a simpler scene with fewer objects.
Coherence Time-Locked to the Saccade Under Low Cognitive Loads
Time frame: Study Visit (Day 1)
Aims 1 and 2. Low cognitive loads defined as staring at a blank field of view or REM sleep.
Coherence Time-Locked to the Saccade Under No Cognitive Loads
Time frame: Study Visit (Day 1)
Aims 1 and 2. Low cognitive loads defined as staring at a blank field of view or REM sleep.
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
- All subjects:
- Adults (18-70 years)
- Able to provide informed consent Aim 1: Surgical epilepsy patients' inclusion criteria
- Implanted hippocampal depth electrodes for Stage 1 epilepsy surgery
- MMSE\>=24 Aim 2: RNS patients Inclusion criteria
- Implanted RNS device with at least one hippocampal depth electrode
- At least 5 months post-implantation to avoid the post-implant effect
- Have a relatively low number of seizures, defined as \<1 generalized tonic-clonic or other seizure with potential to fall or cause injury per month
- Able to walk and wear research equipment without assistance
- MMSE\>=24 Aim 2: Healthy Control Inclusion criteria • Able to walk and wear research equipment without assistance
Exclusion criteria
- RNS patients, Aim 2: • Any generalized tonic-clonic seizure within the last week All subjects:
- Legally blind
- Smoking tobacco, marijuana, recreational drugs or alcohol use within 1 week of cognitive testing
- Unable to give informed consent
Where
- New York, New York
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 8, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations