Scientists zap brains to unlock secrets of memory and navigation

NCT ID NCT04874220

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

Summary

This study uses deep brain stimulation and recordings to understand how the brain navigates real and virtual spaces. Seventy participants with implanted RNS systems will perform memory tasks in VR, AR, and real-world settings. The goal is to link brain activity, body movements, and memory performance to improve future treatments for memory disorders.

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

What this could lead to

If successful, this could reveal how deep brain stimulation improves memory and navigation, pointing toward future treatments for memory loss.

What could go wrong

This is an early-stage observational study with only 70 participants. It is designed to understand brain activity, not to test a treatment, so direct benefits are uncertain.

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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As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Duke University

    RECRUITING

    Durham, North Carolina, 27705, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact

  • University of California, Los Angeles

    RECRUITING

    Los Angeles, California, 90024, United States

    Contact

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••