Scientists zap brains to unlock secrets of focus

NCT ID NCT04885322

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of California, Davis Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study uses a weak electrical current applied to the scalp (tDCS) to see if it can improve attention and cognitive control in healthy adults and people with schizophrenia. Participants will perform thinking tasks while their brain activity is measured with EEG. The goal is to understand how different brain regions contribute to focus and memory, not to treat any condition.

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 successful, this could help scientists understand how brain stimulation affects attention and thinking, potentially guiding future treatments for cognitive issues.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage basic research study, not a treatment trial. It may not lead to any direct medical benefit, and results may not apply to real-world settings.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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As listed by the trial registrant

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

HEALTHY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Imaging Research Center
RECRUITING

Sacramento, California, 95817, United States

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