NCT05801861 · Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
Modulating Goal-directed Navigation Using Noninvasive Brain Stimulation
What this study is about
Our specific aim is to examine the effects of TMS on spatial processing during goal-directed navigation. In these experiments the investigators will utilize a scalp-recorded brain oscillation called right posterior theta that is believed to index the sensitivity of the parahippocampal cortex to spatial context.
View original scientific description
Our specific aim is to examine the effects of TMS on spatial processing during goal-directed navigation. In these experiments the investigators will utilize a scalp-recorded brain oscillation called right posterior theta that is believed to index the sensitivity of the parahippocampal cortex to spatial context. Here the investigators will asked whether this electrophysiological signal can be modulated up or down using TMS while participants engage in virtual navigation tasks, and if so, whether it would affect the spatial encoding of rewards and subsequent choices during task performance.
Interventions
DEVICE
Active 10-Hz TMS to the parietal cortex
The active 10-Hz TMS group will receive 10hz TMS stimulation in the first TMS session, and single pulse TMS in the second TMS session. Participants in the active stimulation group will receive 10-Hz TMS to right parietal cortex. The TMS target will be based on subject specific anatomical MRI images (diffusion imaging). TMS will be delivered using a robotic neuronavigation system (Smartmove, ANT). Stimulation intensity will be standardized at 110% of RMT and adjusted to the skull to cortical surface based on e-field calculations (simnibs). Stimulation will be delivered to the right parietal cortex using an active/placebo figure-8 coil, an magventure TMS device.
DEVICE
Active single pulse TMS to the parietal cortex
The active single pulse TMS group will receive single pulse TMS stimulation in the first and second TMS session. Participants in the active stimulation group will receive single pulse TMS to right parietal cortex. The TMS target will be based on subject specific anatomical MRI images (diffusion imaging). TMS will be delivered using a robotic neuronavigation system (Smartmove, ANT). Stimulation intensity will be standardized at 110% of RMT and adjusted to the skull to cortical surface based on e-field calculations (simnibs). Stimulation will be delivered to the right parietal cortex using an active/placebo figure-8 coil, an magventure TMS device.
DEVICE
Sham 10-Hz TMS to the right parietal cortex
The parameters in the active arms will be as above with the internal randomization of the device internally switching to sham in a blinded fashion.
DEVICE
Sham single-pulse rTMS the rigt parietal cortex
The parameters in the active arms will be as above with the internal randomization of the device internally switching to sham in a blinded fashion.
Primary outcome measures
Event-related Brain Oscillation: Right Posterior Theta
Time frame: Day 0 (day of testing)
Right posterior theta (RPT: 4-8 hz) is a scalp recorded brain oscillation sensitive to spatial processing of reward stimulus presented during navigation tasks. RPT will be measured during the presentation of the reward stimulus (Reward, No-reward) during virtual navigation. A time-frequency analysis will be used to measure RPT power for each electrode by averaging the single-trial EEG according to feedback type (reward and no-reward) during the navigation tasks. The size of the RPT will be determined by identifying the maximum amplitude of the RPT response and evaluated at posterior electrodes. The RPT will be measured for each proposed right posterior target across active and sham groups, and used to measure the efficacy of the TMS target to modulate brain activity associated with spatial processing.
Spatial Recall performance
Time frame: Day 0 (day of testing)
Spatial recall performance learning will be measured using the Linear Track maze. During an initial encoding phase participants are exposed to five pairs of distinct pillars (landmarks), and only one of the pillar location will be paired with a reward cue. Then during the recall phase, participants are presented with old and new landmarks, and must recall which landmark contained the reward. A correct response would result in a 5-cent reward. Recall performance will be assessed using d-prime, which is calculated as the normalized distance between the probability distributions of the hit rate and the false alarm rate. This parameter represents how well subjects were able to maximize correct hits while minimizing false alarms. High recall performance is measured as a subject's ability to correctly identify rewarded pillars and reject non-rewarded pillars, as well as pillars that were not present during the last trial.
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
- Be between the ages of 18 and 55 years old.
- Not received substance abuse treatment within the previous 30 days.
- Be in stable mental and physical health.
- If female, test non-pregnant.
- No evidence of focal or diffuse brain lesion on MRI.
- Be willing to provide informed consent.
- Be able to comply with protocol requirements and likely to complete all study procedures.
Exclusion criteria
- Contraindication to MRI (e.g., presence of metal in the skull, orbits or intracranial cavity, claustrophobia).
- Contraindication to rTMS (history of neurological disorder or seizure, increased intracranial pressure, brain surgery, or head trauma with loss of consciousness for \> 15 minutes, implanted electronic device, metal in the head, or pregnancy).
- History of autoimmune, endocrine, viral, or vascular disorder affecting the brain.
- History or MRI evidence of neurological disorder that would lead to local or diffuse brain lesions or significant physical impairment.
- Life time history of mental disorders such as: Bipolar Affective disorder (BPAD), Schizophrenia, Post-traumatic Stress disorder (PTSD) or Dementia or Major Depression. uninterruptable central nervous system medication.
Where
- Newark, New Jersey
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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 Nov 17, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations