NCT06107764 · Mclean Hospital
Cerebellar Modulation of Cognition in Psychosis
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn about cognition in psychotic disorders (schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and schizoaffective disorder). The main question it aims to answer is: Can we use magnetic stimulation to change processing speed (how quickly people can solve challenging tasks).
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn about cognition in psychotic disorders (schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and schizoaffective disorder). The main question it aims to answer is: Can we use magnetic stimulation to change processing speed (how quickly people can solve challenging tasks). Participants will be asked to perform cognitive tasks (problem-solving) and undergo brain scans before and after transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). TMS is a way to non-invasively change brain activity. Forms of TMS are FDA-approved to treat depression and obsessive compulsive disorder. In this study, we will use a different form of TMS to temporarily change brain activity to observe how that changes speed in problem-solving.
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
- Age between 18-55 years
- Diagnosis of a psychotic disorder (i.e. schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder or bipolar disorder type I)
- Must be able to read, speak and understand English
- Must be judged by study staff to be capable of completing the study procedures
- Participants will be in stable outpatient treatment with no recent (within the past 30 days) hospitalizations or changes in their medication regimens.
Exclusion criteria
- Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 5 diagnosis of moderate substance use disorder within the past month
- Conditions that might result in increased risks of side effects or complications from rTMS or MRI, including:
- Intracranial pathology from a known genetic disorder (e.g., Neurofibromatosis 1, tuberous sclerosis) or from acquired neurologic disease (e.g. stroke, tumor), cerebral palsy, history of severe head injury, or significant dysmorphology;
- History of fainting spells of unknown or undetermined etiology that might constitute seizures
- History of multiple seizures or diagnosis of epilepsy
- Any progressive (e.g., neurodegenerative) neurological disorder such as multiple sclerosis or Parkinson's disease
- Chronic (particularly) uncontrolled medical conditions that may cause a medical emergency in case of a provoked seizure (cardiac malformation, cardiac dysrhythmia, asthma, etc.)
- Metal implants (excluding dental fillings) unless cleared by the responsible covering MD (i.e. MRI compatible joint replacement)
- Implanted medication pump
- Vagal nerve stimulator
- Deep brain stimulator or transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation unit
- Ventriculo-peritoneal shunt
- Signs of increased intracranial pressure
- Intracranial lesion
- History of head injury resulting in prolonged loss of consciousness (\>15minutes) or neurological sequelae
- Pregnancy: All participants capable of becoming pregnant will be required to have a pregnancy test; any participant who is pregnant will not be enrolled in the study.
Where
- Belmont, Massachusetts
- Boston, Massachusetts
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 Mar 17, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations