Restructuring the Alpha-Gamma Code in Aging Vision

This study is exploring how our brains process vision as we age and whether a technique called high definition transcranial electrical current stimulation (HD-tACS) can improve age-related vision changes. HD-tACS is a low-intensity, safe, noninvasive method that uses electrical currents applied to the scalp to gently adjust brain activity. Researchers want to see if changes in brain wave patterns, specifically alpha-gamma coupling, contribute to vision problems in older adults. The study aims to use HD-tACS to restore these brain wave patterns to a preferred state, hoping to improve your vision. We are looking for 240 participants aged 18 and older with normal or corrected-to-normal vision. The study will measure changes in your ability to see contrast and 3D shapes.

Study design
This is an interventional study with a planned enrollment of 240 participants. It involves two separate five-day, double-blind, sham-controlled studies.
What's involved
You would participate in two five-day studies. During each study day, your vision will be tested before and immediately after receiving the stimulation.
Compensation
Not stated in the trial record.
Follow-up
Your vision will be measured at baseline (before stimulation) and immediately after stimulation on each of the five study days.

AI-generated from the public study record. Only the study team can confirm whether you're eligible — confirm details with them before making decisions.

NCT07208318

Restructuring the Alpha-Gamma Code in Aging Vision

Recruiting
EARLY_PHASE1Ages 18+InterventionalBasic science
Boston University Charles River Campus
~240 participants
Updated 2026-07-16 on ClinicalTrials.gov
What's tested:High definition transcranial electrical current stimulation

At a glance

Recruiting sites
1 of 1 listed site is recruiting right now
RecruitingSuspended, closed, or not yet open
What they're measuring
contrast sensitivity
Measured over Baseline (pre-stimulation) and immediately post-stimulation, collected on each of the 5 study days.
+2 more outcomes measured
Aging
Visual Perception
Noninvasive Brain Stimulation

NCT07208318

Where you'd take part

This study runs at 1 site. They're the same protocol — you choose where, and that choice sets who your contact draft is addressed to.

  • 111 Cummington Mall, Boston University

    Boston, Massachusettsstudy coordinator listed

    Recruiting

Sites open and close at different times, so the status above is per site — it can differ from the study's overall status.

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Eligibility criteria

Inclusion

18+ years of age or older
normal or corrected-to-normal visual acuity, color vision, and stereo vision

Exclusion

not pregnant,
no metal implants in head,
no implanted electronic devices,
no history of neurological problems or head injury,
no skin sensitivity,
no claustrophobia,
no dementia (normal Mini Mental State Examination between 24-30; Montreal Cognitive Assessment \> 25)
no depression (normal Beck Depression Inventory II \<13; Geriatric Depression Scale \< 10)
no ophthalmological diseases (e.g., strabismus, glaucoma, cataract, macular degeneration)
no history of psychosis
no cognitive deficits (MMSE score\>24; MoCA\>25)
cannot be taking any psychoactive medication.
  • contrast sensitivityBaseline (pre-stimulation) and immediately post-stimulation, collected on each of the 5 study days.

    Orientation identification task

  • 3D structural-from-motionBaseline (pre-stimulation) and immediately post-stimulation, collected on each of the 5 study days.

    surface point lifetime (unlimited, 12 and 2 successive views) on 3D discrimination task

  • phase-amplitude couplingBaseline (pre-stimulation) and immediately post-stimulation, collected on each of the 5 study days.

    alpha phase, gamma amplitude coupling (magnitude of coherency)