Brain zaps timed to your own waves may boost memory in Alzheimer's

NCT ID NCT05904132

Recruiting now Disease control Sponsor: Massachusetts General Hospital Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 14, 2026 · Last updated Jul 15, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called closed-loop transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) can improve memory and brain activity in people with mild cognitive impairment likely due to Alzheimer's disease. Participants receive four different types of stimulation (including a sham placebo) across separate visits while their brain waves are monitored with EEG. The goal is to see if precisely timed electrical pulses can strengthen natural gamma rhythms and enhance cognitive performance.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: a closed-loop transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) device that delivers electrical pulses timed to the brain's natural rhythms
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a non-invasive, personalized brain stimulation therapy to slow memory decline in early Alzheimer's disease.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase study testing short-term effects only. The stimulation may not produce lasting cognitive benefits, and individual responses can vary.

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

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Alzheimer disease Cognitive Dysfunction

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ALZHEIMER DISEASE MILD COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT

Contacts and locations

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Study contacts

Contact

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

Locations

Massachusetts General Hospital
RECRUITING

Charlestown, Massachusetts, 02129, United States

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

Contact

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