RecruitingPhase IIInterventional

Using magnetic brain stimulation to help thinking and memory after brain tumour treatment

This study is investigating if magnetic brain stimulation can help with thinking and memory problems that some people experience after treatment for a slow-growing brain tumour (called a low-grade glioma). Many people find these difficulties affect their daily life, and there are not many treatments available to help. The study aims to understand these thinking problems better and see if a treatment called repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can make a difference. It involves a mix of online tests and, for some, several sessions of rTMS over 4 weeks, with follow-up appointments and scans. The hope is to find new ways to help people improve their thinking skills after brain tumour treatment.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Phase II

Sponsor

University of Liverpool

Enrolment target

Start

01 Feb 2026

Estimated completion

01 Dec 2027

Cognitive deficits in patients previously treated for low grade glioma

What is this study about?

Many patients who have been treated for a type of slow-growing brain tumour, called a low-grade glioma, often find it hard to concentrate, remember things, or pay attention. These 'thinking difficulties' can really impact everyday life, making it tough to work, keep up with relationships, or stay independent. Right now, there aren't many good treatments to help with these specific problems, which is why researchers are looking into new approaches.

This study aims to understand these thinking difficulties better – what kind of problems people face, and how severe they are. But it's also looking into a potential new treatment: magnetic brain stimulation. This treatment, known as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), uses magnetic pulses to gently stimulate specific areas of the brain. The idea is that by stimulating these areas, it might be possible to improve how the brain works, potentially helping with memory and concentration.

The overall goal is to find out if rTMS could be a safe and effective way to help people improve their thinking skills after brain tumour treatment. This could lead to better support and new treatment options for patients in the future.

Key takeaways

The study explores magnetic brain stimulation (rTMS) for thinking problems after brain tumour treatment.
It aims to understand and potentially improve memory, concentration, and attention.
Participation involves online tasks, and for some, rTMS sessions at The Walton Centre.
Potential benefits include better self-understanding and possible thinking improvements.
Risks are generally low, with mild side effects for rTMS (e.g., headache, scalp discomfort).
The study takes place at the University of Liverpool and The Walton Centre, Liverpool.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults aged 18 or over who had surgery for a slow-growing brain tumour (low-grade glioma) at The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust from 2013 onwards. You might be invited to take part if you fit these general criteria.

To take part in some of the later stages, you would need to have already completed the initial online tests. For the part involving the special magnetic brain stimulation, you would need to show some signs of thinking difficulties. You also shouldn't have had any recent changes to your medical treatment (like chemotherapy or radiotherapy) in the last three months.

However, you wouldn't be able to take part in the magnetic brain stimulation if you have certain metal implants or other conditions that aren't safe with strong magnetic fields, if you are pregnant, or if you have a history of uncontrolled seizures. You would also need to be able to travel to The Walton Centre for the treatment sessions.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Did you have surgery for a low-grade glioma at The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust from 2013 onwards?
Do you sometimes experience difficulties with memory, concentration, or attention?
Are you able to travel to The Walton Centre in Liverpool for appointments if invited to the magnetic brain stimulation part?
Do you *not* have any active metal implants in your head or body (e.g., certain cochlear implants, pacemakers) that would be unsafe with strong magnets?
Are you *not* currently pregnant and do you *not* have a history of uncontrolled seizures?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you take part, the study has three main stages. The first stage involves completing some online questionnaires and computer-based thinking tests at home. This takes less than 90 minutes in total, and you can take breaks whenever you need to. Your answers from these tests, along with existing MRI brain scans, will help researchers understand more about thinking problems and where your tumour was located.

A smaller number of participants who show thinking difficulties may then be invited to the third stage. This involves several sessions of magnetic brain stimulation (rTMS) over 4 weeks. These sessions and other appointments would happen at The Walton Centre or nearby research facilities. You would also have more thinking tests and MRI scans over a three-month period to see if the treatment has made a difference. You can choose which parts of the study you wish to take part in.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part could help you understand your own thinking strengths and challenges better. For those who receive rTMS, there's a chance it might improve your thinking skills, although this isn't guaranteed. Overall, the risks are low. Online tests might make you feel a bit tired or frustrated temporarily. rTMS can cause mild, short-lived side effects like a headache, discomfort on your scalp, or feeling a bit tired. Very rarely, more serious problems like seizures can happen, but safety measures are in place to reduce this risk. Remember, you are free to stop taking part in the study at any time.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust
City only
Liverpool, England

Common questions

What is a low-grade glioma?

It's a type of brain tumour that typically grows slowly. 'Low-grade' means it's less aggressive than other types.

What is rTMS?

rTMS stands for repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation. It's a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain.

Do I have to go to Liverpool?

The first part of the study (questionnaires and tests) can be done online from home. If you're invited to the rTMS part, in-person visits to The Walton Centre in Liverpool would be needed.

Will I get paid to take part?

The study information doesn't mention payment for participating. It's best to check with the study contact for any details about expenses or compensation.

What if I change my mind about participating?

Your participation is completely voluntary. You can choose to withdraw from any part of the study at any time without giving a reason, and it won’t affect your medical care.

How to find out more

Ahmad Ali

wcft.carelgg-study@nhs.net +44 (0)151 525 3611 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.