Zapping the brain to calm the gut: a new frontier for IBS?

NCT ID NCT03869372

Ongoing Knowledge-focused Sponsor: David Levinthal Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study tests whether non-invasive brain stimulation (rTMS) can alter gut activity in healthy people and those with functional dyspepsia or IBS. Researchers will measure stomach rhythms, heart rate, and fullness thresholds after applying rTMS to the motor cortex. It is an early, exploratory study aimed at understanding brain-gut connections, not a treatment.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could pave the way for brain-based treatments for functional gut disorders like IBS and dyspepsia.
What could go wrong: This is an early exploratory study, not a treatment trial. It may not lead to any therapy, and results may not apply to all patients.

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

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for FUNCTIONAL DYSPEPSIA are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

dyspepsia functional gastric disease irritable bowel syndrome

As listed by the trial registrant

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

FUNCTIONAL DYSPEPSIA HEALTHY SUBJECTS IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME

Contacts and locations

Show contact details

Locations

University of Pittsburgh Medical Center

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15232, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.