Brain Stimulation for Epilepsy and Memory Control

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Overseen byFlavio Frohlich, PhD

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?Purpose: The purpose of this pilot study is to investigate the dynamics between theta and alpha oscillations in the control of working memory. These findings will be informative of what types of brain stimulation are most effective at modulating brain activity. Deep brain stimulation and transcranial magnetic stimulation are used for an increasing number of neurological and psychiatric disorders. Participants: Eligible participants are patients who have previously had electrodes implanted to monitor epilepsy (outside of research activity). 50 participants will be recruited, 25 participants for each phase of the study. Procedures (methods): The participants will perform a cognitive control task. During the task, rhythmic trains of direct cortical stimulation will be delivered to the frontal cortex alone or to the frontal and parietal cortex. Electrocorticography will be collected concurrent with stimulation.

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for patients with medically intractable epilepsy who have had electrodes implanted for monitoring. They must be able to consent, speak English, and not have other major neurological illnesses, severe cognitive or psychiatric conditions, substance abuse issues, or any risk factors that could affect their participation as judged by the investigator.

Inclusion Criteria

I have epilepsy that doesn't respond to treatment.

I have electrodes placed in the correct spots for the stimulation session.

Able to provide informed consent

+1 more

Exclusion Criteria

Major systemic illness

I do not have any other brain-related illnesses.

Severe cognitive impairment diagnosed by clinician in neuropsychiatric evaluation

+3 more

Participant Groups

The study tests how different types of brain stimulation (theta and alpha oscillations) affect working memory control. Participants will undergo direct cortical stimulation while performing a cognitive task to see which stimulation methods best modulate brain activity.

2Treatment groups

Active Control

Placebo Group

Group I: Frontal StimulationActive Control3 Interventions

Direct Cortical Stimulation (DCS) in alpha and theta frequencies is applied through electrodes located in the frontal cortex.

Group II: Frontal Parietal StimulationPlacebo Group3 Interventions

Direct Cortical Stimulation (DCS) in in-phase and anti-phase theta frequencies is applied through electrodes located in the frontal and parietal cortex.