Brain zapping study aims to sharpen memory and focus across multiple disorders

NCT ID NCT04296604

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This study is testing whether a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called tDCS can improve executive functions—like working memory, attention, and decision-making—in people with conditions such as traumatic brain injury, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, borderline personality disorder, and substance use disorders. Researchers will enroll 600 participants and measure changes in cognitive tasks after stimulation. The goal is to understand if tDCS can help these groups, not to provide 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
transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) device
What this could lead to
If successful, this could point toward a non-invasive brain stimulation method to help improve focus and memory in people with various mental health and brain conditions.
What could go wrong
This is an early-stage study exploring how tDCS affects brain function, not a treatment trial. Results may not lead to a proven therapy, and individual responses can vary.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-••••

Locations

  • Massachusetts General Hospital

    RECRUITING

    Boston, Massachusetts, 02129, United States

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

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