The presence of damage to the central and / or peripheral nervous system resulting from pathologies of a different nature (such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, dementia, cranial trauma, stroke, epilepsy or other neurological syndromes) is commonly a cause of physical and mental disability. The presence of memory or language cognitive deficits is often evident at a first clinical examination. However, difficulties in cognitive areas such as decision-making, social and emotional cognition or particular forms of learning may be less evident, while exerting a strong impact on the quality of life of patients.
The main purpose of this proposal is to investigate cognitive abilities in patients with neurological damage, through a series of specific tasks.
In addition, the contribution of specific brain areas to the cognitive tasks will be assessed by direct modulation of brain activity. This modulation will be achieved by using non-invasive brain stimulation techniques such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Direct Transcranial Electric Stimulation (tDCS).
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 80 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion criteria:
* Males or females aged between 18 and 80;
* Presence of brain damage resulting from: Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson Disease, Dementia, Cranial Trauma, Neurosurgical Intervention, Ictus, Epilepsy or Other Neurological Syndromes (for the experimental group only);
* Absence of neurological disorders (for the control group only);
* be able to follow the protocol's directions throughout the study;
* Female subjects undertake not to schedule a pregnancy for the duration of the study;
* Patients should be able to follow protocol guidelines throughout the study;
* Patients should be able to understand the aims and risks of the study;
* Signature of informed consent, approved by our Ethics Committee.
Exclusion criteria:
* Incapability even partial to understand and want;
* Patients with other pathologies which, according to the opinion of the scientific manager, prevent the recruitment;
* When using non-invasive brain stimulation techniques or subjects should not submit any of their own contraindications (for further details, see the "Methods" and "Stimulation Evaluation Questionnaire" attached to this proposal);
* Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and delivery not less than three months before the start of the study.
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.