Investigating the use of non-invasive brain stimulation as a predictor of recovery in post-stroke Aphasia

Investigating the use of non-invasive brain stimulation as a predictor of recovery in post-stroke Aphasia

Brief description of study

Aphasia is a condition that occurs frequently following a stroke and is characterized by an impairment in the ability to communicate. The Laboratory for Cognition and Neural Stimulation (LCNS) is conducting a research study which will explore the effectiveness of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as a predictor of recovery in aphasic stroke patients. We will also explore whether theta-burst stimulation (TBS), a type of TMS, can induce improvements in speech, specifically naming.

Detailed description of study

The main purpose of this study is to determine if language improvement following a stroke can be predicted by techniques like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) paired with Electromyography (EMG), language tasks, and genotyping. TMS is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique by which an insulated coil, consisting of copper wires and other electrical components, is held over the head to produce a brief electrical current in the underlying brain tissue; this technique is delivered by highly trained and experienced personnel in our lab. We will target different areas of your brain, one of which will be the area corresponding to a muscle group in your hand. We will collect Electromyography, or EMG for short, which is a method of non-invasive muscle activity recording, by placing small electrodes on different locations on your hand, like your thumb and forefinger. For assessing language improvement, you will also undergo a few sessions where you will perform language tasks that may be displayed on a computer screen or could involve producing verbal responses as directed by our lab personnel. Lastly, we will ask you to provide us with a saliva sample for genotyping. We are also interested in determining whether theta-burst stimulation,a form of repetitive TMS in which TMS pulses are delivered quite rapidly, can improve speech production.

Eligibility of study

You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria:

  • Conditions:
    Aphasia,Broca Aphasia,Conduction Aphasia,Stroke
  • Age: Between 18 Years - 80 Years
  • Gender: All


Updated on 07 Jul 2023. Study ID: 818784

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