Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by significant memory loss, toxic protein deposits amyloid and tau) in the brain, and changes in the gamma frequency band on EEG. The investigator's lab found that boosting gamma waves in AD mouse models using light and sound stimulation at 40Hz not only reduced amyloid and tau in the brain, but also improved memory. The investigators developed a light and sound device for humans that stimulates the brain at 40Hz that can be used safely at home. For the present study, 60 participants with mild Alzheimer's disease will be enrolled and will use this light and sound device at-home daily for 6-months. Investigators will measure changes in brain waves with EEG, blood biomarkers, the microbiome via fecal samples, functional and structural MRI scans, memory and cognitive testing, and questionnaires at 3 in-person visits throughout the study. After the 6-month time point, participants will have the option of continuing in the study for at least one year and completing yearly study visits. This study will provide critical insight into extended therapy involving non-invasive 40Hz sensory stimulation as a possible therapeutic strategy for mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease.
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Feasibility of gamma frequency stimulation as assessed by a change of gamma frequency waves during EEG
Timeframe: Immediately after completing the stimulation at baseline, month 3, and month 6 visits
Baseline incidence of stimulation-related adverse symptoms and side effects as assessed by post-stimulation questionnaires
Timeframe: Immediately after the completion of the stimulation at baseline.
Mid-point incidence of stimulation-related adverse symptoms and side effects as assessed by post-stimulation questionnaires
Timeframe: Immediately after the completion of the stimulation at Month 3.
Endpoint incidence of stimulation-related adverse symptoms and side effects as assessed by post-stimulation questionnaires
Timeframe: Immediately after the completion of the stimulation at the end of the trial- Month 6 timepoints.
Change in stimulation-related adverse symptoms and side effects as assessed by post-stimulation questionnaires
Timeframe: During weekly phone calls throughout the 6-month trial period
Changes in functional brain connectivity as measured by changes in brain white matter on functional MRI scans
Timeframe: At baseline, month 3, and month 6 visits during MRI sessions
Changes in functional brain connectivity as measured by changes in blood-oxygen-level-dependent (BOLD) signals on functional MRI scans
Timeframe: At baseline, month 3, and month 6 visits during MRI sessions
Changes in gamma entrainment, as measured by the change in response to 40Hz frequency during EEG sessions
Timeframe: At baseline, month 3, and month 6 visits during EEG sessions
Changes in molecular biomarkers in AD as measured by RNA sequencing data, particularly those related to inflammation and amyloid levels
Timeframe: Immediately after blood draw at baseline and month 6 visits