Brain zap study reveals secrets of speech learning

NCT ID NCT07455760

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Boston University Charles River Campus Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looks at how two brain areas—the subthalamic nucleus and the ventral intermediate nucleus of the thalamus—help us learn and produce speech. Researchers will temporarily turn deep brain stimulation (DBS) on or off in 80 people with Parkinson's disease or essential tremor while they practice saying new sound sequences. The goal is to understand how DBS affects speech learning, which may lead to better DBS settings that improve both movement and speech.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: deep brain stimulation (DBS) targeting the subthalamic nucleus or ventral intermediate nucleus of the thalamus
What this could lead to: If successful, this research could guide doctors in fine-tuning DBS settings to better preserve or improve speech in people with Parkinson's disease or essential tremor.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage observational study with only 80 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The temporary turning off of DBS may cause discomfort or temporary worsening of symptoms.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

essential tremor Parkinson disease speech disorder Stuttering

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ESSENTIAL TREMOR PARKINSON'S DISEASE (PD)

Contacts and locations

Locations

Boston University
RECRUITING

Boston, Massachusetts, 02215, United States
Massachusetts General Hospital
RECRUITING

Boston, Massachusetts, 02215, United States

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