Scientists use magnetic pulses to map hallucinations in the brain

NCT ID NCT05343598

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Mclean Hospital Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study uses a noninvasive technique called transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to understand how hallucinations work in people with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. Researchers will stimulate a specific brain circuit and measure changes in brain connectivity and symptom severity. The goal is to learn more about the brain mechanisms behind hallucinations, not to test 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: Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could reveal how brain stimulation affects hallucinations, pointing toward new treatment targets for schizophrenia.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage study focused on understanding brain circuits, not testing a treatment. It is small (68 people) and may not lead to direct symptom improvement.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Psychotic Disorders schizoaffective disorder schizophrenia

As listed by the trial registrant

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

SCHIZO AFFECTIVE DISORDER SCHIZOPHRENIA

Contacts and locations

Locations

McLean Hospital
RECRUITING

Belmont, Massachusetts, 02478, United States

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