Impact of CHOlinergic Stimulation on COgnitive and MOtor Functions and Brain Activity in Elderly Volunteers (CHOCOMO) - a randomised, placebo-controlled trial
As we get older, doing two things at once—such as walking while talking—can become harder. Doctors call this 'dual-tasking.' This trial is testing a medicine called donepezil to see if it can improve brain activity, movement, and thinking skills in volunteers. Donepezil boosts a natural chemical in the brain involved in memory and attention. In this study, participants will take either donepezil or a dummy pill (placebo). Researchers will measure how well people can pedal a bike while solving puzzles or doing memory challenges. They will also use brain scans to see how brain activity changes during these activities. The results could help researchers find new ways to support brain health and lower the risk of falls in older adults or people with neurological conditions.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Many everyday activities require us to combine mental and physical tasks. For instance, you might check a shopping list while walking down a busy street. For people with neurological conditions or as people grow older, juggling physical movement and mental focus can become difficult. When the brain has to work harder to divide its attention, people may walk more slowly or make more thinking mistakes, which can increase the risk of trips and falls.
This clinical trial, called CHOCOMO, is looking at whether boosting certain brain chemicals can make dual-tasking easier. The researchers are testing donepezil, a medicine commonly prescribed to support memory. Donepezil works by increasing levels of acetylcholine, a chemical messenger that helps brain cells communicate with each other during thinking and movement.
During the trial, volunteers will complete tasks that test their thinking skills while they pedal on a stationary exercise bike. The team will measure changes in speed, accuracy, and reaction times. They will also look at brain scans to see which areas of the brain light up when tackling these tasks. By learning how this treatment affects coordination and attention, scientists hope to discover better ways to help people stay steady on their feet and keep their minds sharp.
Key takeaways
- Tests whether the medicine donepezil improves multitasking involving thinking and movement.
- Compares the active study tablet against a dummy tablet (placebo).
- Involves memory tests, pedalling a stationary bike, and having an MRI brain scan.
- Open to adults aged 18 and over.
- Participation is completely voluntary and you can stop at any time.
Who may be eligible?
The study is open to adult volunteers of any gender who are 18 years of age or older. While the trial focuses particularly on how older brains handle multitasking, adults from a wide range of age groups may be considered for participation.
Because the study involves physical pedalling and detailed brain scans, participants will need to be able to safely use an exercise bike and lie still inside an MRI scanner. People with certain metal implants, pacemakers, or specific health conditions that make MRI scans or the trial medicine unsafe may not be able to take part.
A member of the research team will review each volunteer's overall health, medical history, and any regular medications before confirming whether they are suitable to join the trial.
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.
- I am aged 18 or older.
- I am able to safely pedal a stationary exercise bike.
- I am comfortable lying flat inside an MRI scanner.
- I do not have metal implants or devices (like pacemakers) that prevent MRI scans.
- I am willing to take a study tablet and complete thinking and memory tests.
What does participation involve?
Taking part involves attending two main study visits. During these visits, you will be asked to take a single dose of either donepezil (5 mg) or a matching dummy tablet (placebo). Neither you nor the study team will know which tablet you receive on the day. You will complete several tests, including pedalling a stationary bike while doing computer-based memory and reaction-time puzzles. You will also do walking tests and have an MRI scan while performing thinking tasks so researchers can safely photograph your brain at work. The visits will be spaced out, and the trial team will guide you through each assessment and monitor you closely throughout.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- —UnverifiedGermany
Common questions
What is a placebo?
A placebo is a dummy tablet that looks identical to the real medicine but contains no active ingredients. It helps scientists see if the changes are truly caused by the drug.
Will having an MRI scan hurt?
No, MRI scans are completely painless. They use magnets and radio waves to take pictures of your brain. The machine can be loud, but you will be given earplugs or headphones.
Do I have to pay to take part?
No, taking part in clinical trials is free. Travel expenses to and from the hospital or clinic are often reimbursed.
Can I stop taking part if I change my mind?
Yes. Joining a clinical trial is entirely voluntary. You can withdraw at any point, and your usual medical care will not be affected in any way.
How fit do I need to be to pedal the bike?
You do not need to be an athlete. The pedalling is gentle and set up on a stationary machine so researchers can safely measure your movement speed.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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