RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Network Properties As Biomarkers for Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation (NIBS) After Stroke

This study is for people who have had a stroke and are still experiencing problems with arm movement. Researchers want to use special brain scans to understand why some individuals respond better than others to a gentle treatment called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). tDCS uses small electrical currents to stimulate the brain. The study will look at connections within the brain, especially between areas involved in movement. By understanding these connections, scientists hope to predict who will benefit most from tDCS, making future treatments more effective and personalised. The ultimate goal is to help more stroke survivors improve their arm function.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf

Enrolment target

Start

01 Jul 2022

Estimated completion

01 Jul 2026

Stroke, Ischemic

What is this study about?

Many studies have looked into whether gentle brain stimulation, like transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), can help people recover movement after a stroke. tDCS uses small electrical currents to gently stimulate certain parts of the brain. While early results seemed promising, particularly for stimulating the main motor area of the brain, it has become clear that this treatment doesn't work the same way for everyone. This means that a single approach for all stroke survivors might not be the most effective way forward.

Because of this, researchers are now looking at other areas of the brain to stimulate, especially those involved in a network called the "cortico-cerebellar network," which plays a big role in movement control. However, there's a lot of variation in how people respond to tDCS, and scientists want to understand why. This study aims to use advanced brain imaging techniques, like MRI scans, to map out the connections and properties of these brain networks in individual stroke patients.

The main goal is to see if information from these brain scans can act as a guide, or 'biomarker,' to predict how well a person might respond to tDCS. The study will compare two types of tDCS: one targeting the main motor area of the brain, and another combining this with stimulation of the cerebellum. By understanding individual brain network characteristics, the hope is to be able to personalise stroke treatments in the future, making them much more effective for each person.

Key takeaways

This study explores how brain scans can improve stroke recovery treatments.
It focuses on gentle brain stimulation (tDCS) for arm movement.
Researchers want to understand why tDCS works for some people but not others.
The goal is to personalise treatments by using brain network information.
Participation involves brain scans and tDCS sessions.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults aged 18 or over who have had one ischemic stroke (a stroke caused by a blood clot) more than three months ago, but are still experiencing some weakness or difficulty with movement in their arm. Your stroke should have affected the upper part of your brain, and you'll need to be able to provide written agreement to take part.

There are certain reasons why someone might not be able to join the study. This includes if you have any metal implants that are not safe for MRI scans, or if you have certain types of electrical implants like a brain stimulator. You also can't participate if you have a history of epilepsy or seizures, or if you've had more than one stroke. They also need to make sure you don't have other serious medical conditions that could interfere with the study or make it unsafe, such as severe heart problems, significant nerve damage in your arms, or severe memory problems.

Additionally, conditions like active drug or alcohol misuse, or a severe mental health condition like psychosis, would mean you couldn't be included. This is to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants, and to make sure the study results are clear and reliable.

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 18 years old or older.
I have had one stroke caused by a blood clot more than 3 months ago.
I still have some weakness or difficulty moving my arm.
I do not have any metal implants or electrical devices that are unsafe for MRI.
I have never had epilepsy or seizures.

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you will undergo a series of assessments. This will include clinical evaluations by doctors and specialist nurses to understand your current health and arm movement. You will also have structural and functional MRI scans of your brain. These scans are non-invasive and help researchers look at the structure and connections within your brain. After these initial assessments, you will receive transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) sessions. The study involves evaluating the impact of tDCS on your movement during certain tasks. The total duration of your participation in the study, including all visits and assessments, will be explained in detail by the study team.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study might offer a potential benefit of receiving gentle brain stimulation that could help improve arm movement after your stroke, though this is not guaranteed as the study is designed to understand if and how it works. You might also find satisfaction in contributing to scientific knowledge that could lead to better treatments for stroke survivors in the future. Potential risks are generally low with tDCS, but could include mild skin irritation where the electrodes are placed, or a tingling sensation. MRI scans are usually very safe, but involve being in a confined space and can be noisy. You will be fully informed of all potential risks before you consent, and remember, you have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and this will not affect your future medical care.

Locations (1)

University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Dept. of Neurology
Verified postcode
Hamburg, Germany· Recruiting

Common questions

What is tDCS?

tDCS stands for transcranial direct current stimulation. It's a gentle, non-invasive treatment that uses small electrical currents delivered through electrodes placed on your scalp to stimulate specific areas of your brain.

What is an MRI scan?

An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body, in this case, your brain. It does not use X-rays.

Will I feel an electric shock?

No, tDCS uses very mild electrical currents, so you might feel a slight tingling, itching, or warmth on your scalp, but it is not a painful electric shock.

What does 'cortico-cerebellar network' mean?

This refers to the connections between the outer layer of your brain (cortex) and a part called the cerebellum, both of which are very important for controlling movement and coordination.

How long has this research been going on?

Researchers have been exploring brain stimulation for stroke recovery for some time, but this study is looking at new ways to understand and improve its effectiveness for individuals.

How to find out more

Robert Schulz, PD Dr. med.

rschulz@uke.de 0049-40-7410-0 Official trial record

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