RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Cerebellar Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation (tACS) to Modulate Parkinson's Disease Tremor

This study is exploring a new approach to help people with Parkinson's disease who experience hand tremors. Sometimes, existing treatments don't fully control these tremors. Researchers are testing a special device that uses very gentle electrical pulses, called tACS, to target certain areas of the brain involved in tremor. This device is unique because it can perfectly match the electrical pulses to the person's individual tremor rhythm. The main goal is to find out if this personalised brain stimulation can safely and effectively reduce hand tremors in people living with Parkinson's, offering a new potential way to manage this challenging symptom.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf

Enrolment target

Start

16 Apr 2025

Estimated completion

31 Dec 2026

Parkinson's Disease (PD)Tremor

What is this study about?

Parkinson's disease often causes symptoms like slow movement, stiffness, and balance problems. Many also experience tremors, especially in their hands, which can be particularly tricky to manage. While many people find relief with common medications, for some, tremors can continue to be a significant issue.

This study is looking into a brand-new way to potentially help with these tremors. It uses a special, non-invasive method called transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS). Think of it like a very gentle, electrical signal that's applied to the head, aiming to help the brain's natural rhythms. What's really exciting about this particular study is that it uses a new, smart device that can actually 'listen' to a person's hand tremor and then deliver the electrical pulses specifically timed to that tremor. This 'closed-loop' system is designed to be very precise.

The main aim of this research is to see if this precise and personalised brain stimulation can safely and effectively reduce the hand tremors that people with Parkinson's disease experience. This could potentially offer a new treatment option for those who haven't found enough relief from current medicines, or for whom other treatments like brain surgery are not suitable.

Key takeaways

This study is testing a new, gentle brain stimulation for Parkinson's tremor.
It uses a special device that matches stimulation to your hand tremor.
The aim is to reduce challenging hand tremors.
It's a non-invasive treatment, meaning no surgery is involved.
Participation could help improve understanding of Parkinson's tremor treatment.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, we are looking for adults who have been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. You should also be experiencing moderate to severe tremors in your hand that are noticeable and impactful. We'll need your written consent to take part, meaning you understand the study and agree to participate.

There are certain reasons why someone might not be able to join. For example, if you have other brain conditions like a history of stroke, epilepsy, or mental health illnesses, or if you have a heart pacemaker or any metal implants inside your body, you wouldn't be able to participate. This is for your safety. Also, pregnant individuals cannot take part.

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.

Do I have a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease?
Do I experience moderate to severe hand tremors?
Do I understand and agree to give my written consent?
Do I have any other neurological conditions (like stroke or epilepsy)?
Do I have a heart pacemaker or any metal implants in my body?
Am I pregnant?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

Details about what taking part in this study involves will be fully explained by the study team. Usually, this includes several visits to the study clinic for assessments before, during, and after the treatment. These assessments might involve checking your tremor, other Parkinson's symptoms, and having the tACS device applied. You won't be taking any new medications as part of this study, but you'll continue your usual Parkinson's medication as advised by your doctor. The study will involve a period of receiving the tACS (or a control stimulation) and follow-up visits to see if there are any lasting effects. The total duration of your involvement, including all visits and follow-ups, will be clearly outlined.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could potentially help reduce your hand tremor, offering a new way to manage your Parkinson's symptoms. However, like all treatments, there are potential risks, such as mild skin irritation or headaches from the stimulation, though these are usually temporary. There is also no guarantee that the treatment will work for everyone, or that you'll experience any benefit. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf
Verified postcode
Hamburg, Germany· Recruiting

Common questions

What is tACS?

tACS stands for transcranial alternating current stimulation. It's a gentle, non-invasive way to use very mild electrical pulses on the scalp to influence brain activity.

Is tACS painful?

Most people describe tACS as a mild tingling or itching sensation on the scalp, which usually lessens after a few minutes. It's not generally considered painful.

Will this replace my current Parkinson's medication?

No, this study is testing an add-on treatment. You will continue to take your usual Parkinson's medication as prescribed by your doctor during the study.

How long will the study last for me?

The exact duration of your participation will be fully explained by the study team. It will involve several visits over a period, including the treatment phase and follow-ups.

What if I don't feel any better?

There's no guarantee that everyone will benefit from the treatment. However, your participation still helps researchers learn more, which could help others in the future.

How to find out more

Simone Zittel, Dr. med.

s.zittel-dirks@uke.de +49 40 7410 53770 Official trial record

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