Zapping the brain to understand schizophrenia: small study tests TMS on attention and cravings

NCT ID NCT07190352

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This completed study tested whether targeted brain stimulation (TMS) could affect attention and nicotine cravings in 15 people with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder who smoke. Researchers applied different types of TMS to a brain network linked to attention and measured changes in brain connectivity and craving levels. The goal was to understand how brain networks work in schizophrenia, not to provide a new treatment.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could help researchers understand how brain networks affect attention and cravings in schizophrenia, potentially guiding future treatments.

What could go wrong

This is a very small, early-stage study with only 15 participants. It was designed to explore brain activity, not to test a treatment, so results may not lead to any direct benefit.

Disclaimer Read more

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.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

nicotine dependence schizoaffective disorder schizophrenia schizophrenia 1

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

    Boston, Massachusetts, 02215, United States