GENUS Stimulation to Prevent Alzheimer's Disease
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a light and sound device that creates brain waves at 40Hz. It targets people aged 55+ with a family history of Alzheimer's disease. The device aims to boost brain waves to reduce harmful proteins and improve memory.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that participants do not take NMDA antagonists. If you are undergoing a lumbar puncture, you cannot use warfarin or similar blood thinners. Other medications are not specifically mentioned, so check with the study team for more details.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment GENUS, Gamma Entrainment Using Sensory stimulation, 40Hz Light and Sound Stimulation, in preventing Alzheimer's disease?
Research shows that GENUS, which uses 40Hz light and sound stimulation, can reduce Alzheimer's disease markers like amyloid and tau in mice, and improve memory and daily activities in humans with mild Alzheimer's. Studies also found that this treatment is safe, well-tolerated, and can improve brain connectivity and reduce brain shrinkage in patients.12345
Is GENUS (Gamma Entrainment Using Sensory stimulation) safe for humans?
Studies show that GENUS, which uses 40Hz light and sound stimulation, is generally safe and well-tolerated in humans, including those with mild Alzheimer's disease. Participants in trials experienced no significant adverse effects, and the treatment was well-received over periods of up to six months.12346
How is the GENUS treatment different from other Alzheimer's treatments?
GENUS is unique because it uses non-invasive sensory stimulation with light and sound at 40Hz to improve brain function and reduce Alzheimer's disease markers, unlike traditional drug treatments. This approach aims to restore normal brain rhythms and improve cognitive and daily living activities without medication.12347
Research Team
Diane Chan, MD PhD
Principal Investigator
Massachusetts General Hospital
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for cognitively normal people aged 55-90 with a family history of Alzheimer's, who have certain scores on memory and mental state exams, and specific brain amyloid levels. They must be able to undergo MRI/PET scans, have good vision and hearing for tests, and can't be pregnant or have severe illnesses that affect study participation.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Trial Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants use the GENUS light and sound device at home for 12 months, 60 minutes each day
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Treatment Details
Interventions
- GENUS (Behavioural Intervention)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Massachusetts General Hospital
Lead Sponsor
Dr. William Curry
Massachusetts General Hospital
Chief Medical Officer
MD from Harvard Medical School
Dr. Anne Klibanski
Massachusetts General Hospital
Chief Executive Officer since 2019
MD from Harvard Medical School
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Collaborator
Sally Kornbluth
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Chief Executive Officer since 2023
PhD in Molecular Biology from Rockefeller University
Angela Koehler
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Chief Medical Officer
MD from Harvard Medical School