Could a gentle brain zap quiet voices in schizophrenia?
NCT ID NCT06155695
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This small, early study tested a new approach called Auditory Control Enhancement (ACE) for people with schizophrenia who hear voices (auditory hallucinations) that don't respond to medication. ACE combines a mild brain stimulation technique called tDCS with cognitive training. The study aimed to see if the method is safe, acceptable, and whether it changes brain activity in areas linked to hearing and attention. Only 12 people were enrolled, and the study was terminated early, so the results are very preliminary.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could point toward a new, noninvasive treatment for auditory hallucinations in schizophrenia.
What could go wrong
This was a very small, early feasibility study (12 people) that was terminated, so results are limited. It is not yet known if the approach is effective or safe for wider use.
Disclaimer
Read more
Show less
This is a summary of
the original study
.
Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for SCHIZOPHRENIA are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Show contact details
Enter your email to view the contact information for this study.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Locations
-
Western Psychiatric Hospital of UPMC
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15213, United States