Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Episodic Memory

Palo Alto (17 mi)

Age: 18 - 65

Sex: Any

Travel: May be covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: N/A

Recruiting

Sponsor: Boston College

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?The goal of this study is to understand the basic brain mechanisms supporting episodic memory in healthy young adults. Transcranial magnetic stimulation will be used to influence brain activity in regions thought to be important for episodic memory. Behavioral testing and MRI will be used to measure the effects of stimulation on memory and on changes in brain network interactions, allowing us to draw causal inferences regarding the role of specific brain regions in memory processes.

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for healthy, right-handed adults aged 18 to 35 who speak English fluently and have normal vision (with or without correction). It's not suitable for those with major neurological or psychiatric illnesses.

Inclusion Criteria

I am between 18 and 35 years old.

I do not have any major neurological or psychiatric illnesses.

My vision is normal or corrected to normal with glasses or contacts.

Exclusion Criteria

I have no history of brain injuries, seizures, or unexplained loss of consciousness.

I have a history of heart disease.

I have had brain surgery in the past.

I am currently taking medication that can affect my hearing.

I have hearing loss caused by loud noise exposure.

I cannot stay still for an hour due to uncontrollable shaking.

I do not have any implants or conditions that make MRI scans unsafe for me.

Treatment Details

The study tests how transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) affects brain activity related to episodic memory. Participants will undergo TMS, behavioral testing, and MRI scans to see how this influences memory and brain network interactions.

1Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Group I: All participantsExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

All participants will complete all experimental conditions, which include transcranial magnetic stimulation (continuous theta-burst stimulation) to a brain region of experimental interest and to a control brain region.