Past Projects

Overview

Promoting Adaptive Neuroplasticity in Mild Cognitive Impairment (MERIT) examines the effects of two types of treatments for memory impairment in those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI): a cognitive rehabilitation task involving new ways to learn and remember information and non-invasive brain stimulation (tDCS). tDCS can enhance functioning in brain regions associated with memory decline, thereby reinforcing the benefits of memory rehabilitation strategies. The study includes 9 visits at the University of Michigan including cognitive testing, tDCS, and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).

Eligibility Criteria

• Adults age 50+

• Right-handed

• Official diagnosis of MCI

• Stable on all medications for at least 4 weeks prior to participation

• English speaking (as the preferred language)

• fMRI compatible

Exclusionary Criteria

• History of severe psychiatric conditions (bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, etc.)

• History of other neurological conditions (epilepsy, stroke, traumatic brain injury, etc.)

• Sensory impairments that limit the ability to see or hear

• History of (or current) drug or alcohol use/dependence

You can read more about the Merit study on the U.S. Clinical Trials website.

Overview

Stimulation of Cingulo-Opercular Alertness Network (SCAN) examines the use of transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) as a potential treatment for cognitive challenges in those suffering from Lewy Body Dementia. The study includes 12 visits at the University of Michigan including cognitive testing, tDCS, and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. 

Eligibility Criteria

• Individuals with a diagnosis of Lewy Body Dementia

• 50-90 years of age

• Stable on doses of cholinesterase inhibitors (at least 4 weeks)

• Participants must be MRI compatible (via the American College of Radiology guideline), criteria that also apply for High Definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS; e.g., absence of metallic or electronic implants)

Exclusionary Criteria

• Participants who cannot receive MR imaging

• Participants who cannot receive tDCS (for example, but not limited to, those with a pacemaker)

• Evidence of large vessel stroke or mass lesion on MRI

• Use of anti-cholinergic or neuroleptic drugs

• Evidence of atypical parkinsonism on neurological exam

You can read more about the SCAN study on the U.S. Clinical Trials website. 

Overview

The Memory Training and Plasticity (WMtrain) study aims to to better understand the effects of cognitive training as a possible method for improving cognition. This study includes between 8 and 18 visits at the University of Michigan involving cognitive testing, surveys, and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). We are recruiting older adults both with and without cognitive changes such as mild cognitive impairment. 

Eligibility Criteria

• 60+ years old

• Native English speaker

• Right-handed

Exclusionary Criteria

• Sensory impairments that limit the ability to see or hear

• History of (or current) drug or alcohol abuse/dependence

Overview

Stimulation to Improve Memory (STIM) assesses the effects of HD-tDCS on memory and thinking abilities in those diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia of the Alzheimer’s type (DAT), with the aim of determining how much stimulation is necessary to enhance memory and thinking abilities, and which individuals would benefit most from this treatment. The study includes a minimum of 9 visits at the University of Michigan involving cognitive testing, HD-tDCS, functional magnetic resonance imagining (fMRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. 

Eligibility Criteria

•  Adults age 55+

•  Memory concerns or official diagnosis of MCI or DAT  

•  Stable on all medications for at least 4 weeks prior to participation

•  English speaking (as the preferred language)

•  fMRI compatible

Exclusionary Criteria

• History of severe psychiatric conditions (bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, etc.)

• History of other neurological conditions (epilepsy, stroke, traumatic brain injury, etc.)

• Sensory impairments that limit the ability to see or hear

• History of (or current) drug or alcohol abuse/dependence

How to Participate 

If you are interested in participation, or have questions regarding how to participate, contact:

Stephen Schlaefflin, B.S.

Telephone: (734) 936-7360

Email: schlst@med.umich.edu

To see the visit schedule click here. 

You can read more about the STIM study on the U.S. Clinical Trials website.