Actively Recruiting
Non-invasive Brain Stimulation Using Tdcs of the Third (of Many) Visual Pathways
Led by Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research · Updated on 2026-03-13
120
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
230 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
Sponsors
N
Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research
Lead Sponsor
N
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Collaborating Sponsor
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
This study investigates the ability of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) applied over the motion processing area of the brain (area MT) to improve face emotion recognition (FER) ability. tDCS is a type of non-invasive brain stimulation in which low level currents are applied over the scalp to influence underlying brain function. In schizophrenia, impaired ability to detect facial motion has been shown to contribute to impaired FER, which, in turn, leads to difficulties in social cognition and poor social outcome. The study will use both fMRI and EEG to measure brain function while participants view moving dot and dynamic face stimuli. Analyses will compare changes in fMRI and EEG activity in individuals receiving active vs. sham stimulation.
CONDITIONS
Official Title
Non-invasive Brain Stimulation Using Tdcs of the Third (of Many) Visual Pathways
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Male or female subject, age 18-55
- Competent and willing to sign informed consent
- No more than moderately ill
- SCID DSM-5 diagnosis of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder
- WAIS IQ greater than 70
- No current or recent (past 6 months) DSM-5 substance abuse or dependence
- On medication within clinically approved range
- Does not have other DSM-5 disorders except minor ones such as simple phobia
You will not qualify if you...
- Significant neurological illness or history of significant head trauma
- Unstable physical illness or significant auditory/visual deficits that might interfere
- Contraindication to MRI (e.g., metal implants, claustrophobia, pregnancy)
- Contraindications to tDCS including metal implant, pacemaker, history of seizure, traumatic brain injury, or stroke
- Significant risk for suicide
- History of illness or condition that may interfere with study completion or data quality
- Moderate or greater current DSM-5 substance use disorder or substance use impacting daily activities
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
Nathan Kline Institute
Orangeburg, New York, United States, 10962
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
O
Odeta Beggel, MA
CONTACT
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
QUADRUPLE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
2
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