Circuit-specific neuromodulation for the treatment of apathy in Alzheimer’s Disease

• Principal Investigator: Mark Eldaief, MD
• Sponsors: National Institute on Aging (NIA)
• Conditions Studied: Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)

In this research study we want to better understand and to better treat apathy in Alzheimer’s disease and in Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI).

Specifically, we will examine whether a form of non-invasive brain stimulation called “Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation” (TMS) can: (1) change connectivity in brain circuits related to apathy, (2) increase the spread of dopamine (a brain chemical thought to be involved in apathy), and (3) change behaviors on tests of apathy.

TMS is a way of non-invasively stimulating the brain to mildly activate or mildly suppress different brain areas. TMS operates by creating a magnetic field that subsequently changes brain activity. In this research study, we will measure the effects of TMS by obtaining “pictures” of your brain with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and with Positron Emission Tomography (PET) through a combined MR/PET scanner.

You will undergo four study visits at the MGH Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging in Charlestown, MA, each lasting about three to four hours. Each of these visits will be separated by at least one week.

At visit 1, you will undergo a baseline MRI to derive the stimulation target for TMS. At visits 2, 3, and 4 you will undergo brief MRI scanning, followed by TMS, and ending with the MR/PET scan.

You will be paid up to 75$ for each visit you complete.

If you are interested in learning more about this research study, please contact Anna Du (andu@mgh.harvard.edu)