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A jolt to the brain may unlock words: testing tDCS for language in down syndrome

NCT ID NCT07044804

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Floriana Costanzo Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 24, 2026 · Last updated Jul 24, 2026

Summary

This trial tests whether a gentle electrical current applied to the brain, called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), can boost language skills in adolescents and young adults with Down syndrome when paired with speech therapy. Thirty-six participants aged 12 to 21 will receive either active tDCS (anodal or cathodal) or a sham version over 10 sessions. The goal is to see if the stimulation improves expressive vocabulary and other language abilities, and whether any benefits last for three months.

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) applied to the left inferior frontal gyrus, combined with speech and language training
What this could lead to
If effective, this approach could offer a new, non-invasive rehabilitation strategy to improve language abilities in adolescents and young adults with Down syndrome.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early proof-of-concept study with only 36 participants. It is unclear whether tDCS will produce lasting benefits, and individual responses may vary.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1F Down syndrome Speech

As listed by the trial registrant

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

DOWN SYNDROME

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

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

  • Contact

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

Locations

  • Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS

    RECRUITING

    Rome, 00165, Italy

    Contact

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

    Contact

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