Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Attention and Memory in Veterans with TBI
This study is looking at whether a non-surgical treatment called transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) can improve attention and memory in veterans. You might be able to join if you are a veteran aged 25-64, right-handed, have a history of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) from military service, and also have PTSD and/or depression. taVNS involves placing electrodes on your ear to deliver a gentle electrical current to the vagus nerve, which helps regulate brain areas for attention and memory. The study will compare active taVNS to a sham (placebo) treatment to see if it makes a difference in your attention and working memory. The study is currently unclear on its recruitment status and plans to enroll 30 participants.
- Study design
- This is an interventional study with a planned enrollment of 30 participants. It uses a crossover design where all participants will receive both active taVNS and a sham (placebo) session.
- What's involved
- You would complete a single study visit lasting 2.5 to 3 hours. This visit includes questionnaires and two taVNS sessions (one active and one sham).
- Compensation
- Not stated in the trial record.
- Follow-up
- Attention and working memory will be measured at one day, one visit.
AI-generated from the public study record. Only the study team can confirm whether you're eligible — confirm details with them before making decisions.
Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Attention and Memory
At a glance
Conditions
Where it's being run
2 sites across 1 statesWho to contact
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Do you actually qualify for this trial?
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Inclusion
Exclusion
What this trial measures
- Attention and working memoryOne day, one visit
Aim 1: To evaluate the effects of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) on sustained attention and working memory. Attention and memory performance will be assessed using the Gradual Onset Continuous Performance Task (gradCPT), a validated computerized test that measures the ability to sustain attention and respond selectively to relevant stimuli. This cognitive test measures sustained attention and inhibitory control. During the test, subjects view a continuous stream of gradually fading images of cities and mountains on a computer screen. They are instructed to press the space bar when they see a city (target stimulus) and withhold responses when they see a mountain (non-target stimulus). Key performance metrics which collectively assess attention and working memory in this test include mean reaction time (response speed), omission errors (failure to respond to targets), and commission errors (responses to non-targets).