NCT06345963 · The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
Enhancing Brain Connectivity in Schizophrenia Through Neuromodulation (Study 1)
What this study is about
Patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorder (SSD) will be exposed to active repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) from H coil for improving white matter integrity.
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Patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorder (SSD) will be exposed to active repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) from H coil for improving white matter integrity.
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
- Male and female ages between ages 18-60 years
- Ability to give written informed consent (age 18 or above)
- Diagnosed with schizophrenia-spectrum disorder and Evaluation to Sign Consent (ESC) above 10.
Exclusion criteria
- Inability to sign informed consent.
- Any history of seizures.
- Any acute and unstable major medical illnesses that may affect normal brain functioning. Examples of these conditions include, but not limited to, recent stroke, seizure, history of significant head trauma, CNS infection or tumor, other significant brain neurological conditions (As this is a study of medical comorbidity, most medical conditions, once stable, are not exclusion criteria).
- Taking \> 400 mg clozapine/day.
- Failed TMS screening questionnaire.
- Significant alcohol or other drug use (substance dependence within 6 months or substance abuse within 1 month) other than nicotine or marijuana dependence.
- A history of thrombosis, family history of thrombosis, or medical conditions that may lead to a hypercoagulable state (increased chance to develop blood clots)
- Woman who is pregnant (child-bearing potential but not on contraceptive and missing menstrual period; or by self-report; or by positive urine pregnancy test).
- History of head injury with loss of consciousness over 10 minutes; history of brain surgery
- Cannot refrain from using alcohol and/or marijuana 24 hours or more prior to experiments.
- Students and employees currently involved with our lab (lab employees and personnel will be excluded from the study to avoid possible coercion or possible appearance of coercion, or chance of breach of privacy and confidentiality).
- For MRI, unable to undergo MRI scanning due to metallic devices or objects (cardiac pacemaker or neurostimulator, some artificial joints, metal pins, surgical clips, or other implanted metal parts) or claustrophobic to the scanner.
Where
- Houston, Texas
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 7, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations