Modulating Goal-directed Navigation Using Noninvasive Brain Stimulation
United States60 participantsStarted 2023-03-24
Plain-language summary
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.
Who can participate
Age range18 Years – 55 Years
SexALL
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
✓. 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).
What they're measuring
1
Event-related Brain Oscillation: Right Posterior Theta
Timeframe: Day 0 (day of testing)
2
Spatial Recall performance
Timeframe: Day 0 (day of testing)
Trial details
NCT IDNCT05801861
SponsorRutgers, The State University of New Jersey
. 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.