NCT07650188 · Medical College of Wisconsin
Stimulating the Aging Brain Using Brain and Sensory Stimulation
(StAB)
What this study is about
The goal of this project is to investigate whether transcranial electrical stimulation and sensory stimulation affect language outcomes in individuals with primary progressive aphasia (PPA).
View original scientific description
The goal of this project is to investigate whether transcranial electrical stimulation and sensory stimulation affect language outcomes in individuals with primary progressive aphasia (PPA). The main questions it aims to answer are: Does transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) affect verbal short-term memory (STM) in individuals with PPA? Does a single session of multisensory stimulation affect verbal STM in individuals with PPA? Researchers will compare active tACS to sham tACS (a fake stimulation condition) to see if active tACS improves verbal STM. Researchers will compare pre-multisensory stimulation to post-stimulation performance to see if multisensory stimulation improves verbal STM.
Interventions
DEVICE
tACS or multisensory stimulation
Active or sham tACS Light and/or sound flickers
Primary outcome measures
Changes in STM capacity assessed using a verbal STM task
Time frame: Changes monitored over pre, during and immediately after 20 minutes of tACS
Improvement in STM capacity with in-phase tACS and worsening of STM capacity with anti-phase tACS compared to sham tACS
Changes in STM capacity with multisensory stimulation using a verbal STM task
Time frame: Changes monitored pre and immediately after 20 minutes of stimulation
Improvement in STM capacity post-stimulation compared to pre-stimulation
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
- Clinical exam supports diagnosis of PPA and/or MCI with no report of difficulty functioning in basic or instrumental activities of daily living.
- Completed clinical cognitive exam within 6 months of study baseline visit OR neuropsychological research battery within 6 months of study baseline visit.
Exclusion criteria
- Evidence of dementia at baseline
- Known history of neoplasm, symptomatic stroke, moderate to severe traumatic brain injury, or other significant neurologic event
- Age \<45 years.
- Evidence of severe psychiatric illness (e.g., bipolar disorder, schizophrenia).
- Presence of cardiac stimulators or pacemakers
- Any other implants near the scalp or in the eye
- Contraindications to MRI or stimulation
- History of ongoing or unmanaged seizures
- History of dyslexia or other developmental learning disabilities
Where
- Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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 Jun 16, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations