Non-invasive brain stimulation and cognitive enhancement in healthy volunteers: investigating the effects of theta burst stimulation (TBS) on learning and memory.

Status

Terminated

Phases

Unknown

Study type

Interventional

Source

ANZCTR

Registry ID

ACTRN12613000947707

Enrollment

Registered

2013-08-27

Start date

2013-09-23

Completion date

2014-04-03

Last updated

2026-02-09

For informational purposes only — not medical advice. Sourced from public registries and may not reflect the latest updates. Terms

Conditions

None listed

Brief summary

The purpose of this project is to investigate whether brain stimulation techniques will lead to an improvement of working memory (‘working memory’ refers to the temporary storage and processing of information) in healthy volunteers. We are conducting a study to see whether TMS applied at the front of the brain can improve performance on tests of working memory. The type of TMS we are using is called Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS). Theta burst stimulation (TBS) is a type of TMS where the magnetic pulses are applied in very short bursts (three pulses at a time) at a high frequency (30-50 pulses a second).

Interventions

Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) TBS is a type of repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) where high frequency (30 to 50 Hz) of magnetic pulse is given to the superficial areas of the brain in a short period of time. In the current study, in each session participants will receive a single stimulation course (of either active or sham) lasting 3 mins. Therefore, participants will attend for two sessions (one active and one sham) at least 72 hours apart.

Study design

Allocation

Randomised controlled trial

Intervention model

Crossover

Primary purpose

Treatment

Masking

Blinded (masking used) (Subject)

Eligibility

Sex/Gender

All

Age

18 Years to 75 Years

Healthy volunteers

Yes

Inclusion criteria

Healthy participants with no history of psychiatric illnesses

Exclusion criteria

1. Participants who have an unstable medical condition, neurological disorder or any history of a seizure disorder or are currently pregnant or lactating. 2. Participants with metal in the cranium, a pacemaker, cochlear implant medication pump or other electronic device. 3. Professional drivers are not able to participate due to the, albeit relatively low, risk of seizure as this may affect their employment.

Outcome results