| NCT ID | NCT07517237 |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Phase | — |
| Sponsor | Medical University of South Carolina |
| Condition | Psychosocial Well-being |
| Study Type | INTERVENTIONAL |
| Enrollment | 20 participants |
| Start Date | 2026-03-12 |
| Primary Completion | 2026-09-15 |
Eligibility & Interventions
Eligibility Fast-Check
Enter your details for a quick preliminary check. This does not replace medical advice.
What to Expect as a Participant
You will actively receive the study intervention — which may be a drug, biologic, device, or procedure.
This trial targets 20 participants in total. It began in 2026-03-12 with a primary completion date of 2026-09-15.
⚠ This information is for research awareness only. Always consult your physician before joining any clinical trial. Participation is voluntary and you may withdraw at any time.
Brief Summary
The purpose of this study is to investigate whether combining transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) with computerized cognitive training might help improve thinking abilities and mood. Participants will self-administer these treatment in their homes and undergo pre- and post-treatment assessments of thinking abilities and mood and brain MRIs.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria: i. Ages 45-80 (inclusive) ii. Adequate sensorimotor function (including motor function of dominant hand to complete CCT) and verbal expressive abilities to complete all assessments. iii. Access to reliable Wi-Fi and a Bluetooth-enabled mobile phone or tablet with internet connection capable of supporting study procedures. iv. Self-reported change in cognitive functioning (e.g., memory, attention, thinking abilities) compared to prior functioning, persisting ≥ 6 months and associated with concern and/or impact on daily functioning. v. Is on fixed pharmacotherapy (i.e. stable dose of medication/s) for ≥ 4 weeks before enrollment, and expected to remain stable throughout study participation. This includes, but is not limited to, cholinesterase inhibitors, NMDA receptor antagonists, and antidepressants. Exclusion Criteria: i. Prior diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment or Dementia (NIA-AA) or Mild or Major Neurocognitive Disorder (DSM-5). ii. taVNS contraindications (e.g., history of seizures, history of trauma or damage to ear, reduced/impaired sensation in the ear). iii. MRI contraindications (e.g., ferromagnetic implants, claustrophobia). iv. Presence of a neurological, medical, or psychiatric condition that is acute, unstable, or severe, and that, in the judgment of the study investigators, would significantly interfere with safe participation, valid assessment of cognition or mood, or interpretation of study outcomes. v. Enrolled in a clinical trial or has received an investigational medication or device in the last 30 days that may impact cognition or mood. vi. For female participants, a positive pregnancy test if still menstruating within the past 12 months.
Contact & Investigator
Stephanie Aghamoosa, PhD
PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR
Medical University of South Carolina
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join the NCT07517237 clinical trial?
This trial is open to participants of all sexes, aged 45 Years or older, up to 80 Years, studying Psychosocial Well-being. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria are listed in the Eligibility Criteria section. Always confirm your eligibility with the research team before applying.
Is NCT07517237 currently recruiting?
Yes, NCT07517237 is actively recruiting participants. Visit ClinicalTrials.gov or contact Medical University of South Carolina to inquire about joining.
Where is the NCT07517237 trial being conducted?
This trial is being conducted at Charleston, United States.
Who is sponsoring the NCT07517237 clinical trial?
NCT07517237 is sponsored by Medical University of South Carolina. The principal investigator is Stephanie Aghamoosa, PhD at Medical University of South Carolina. The trial plans to enroll 20 participants.