MCI & Depression Research Study
Researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina are studying an investigational treatment that could help people living with MCI and depression.
Fast Facts
Ages 60-85
Diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment
Actively Experiencing Depressive Thoughts
Compensation Provided
Conducted in South Carolina
Study Background
Researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina are conducting a research study to determine the optimal dose of non-invasive brain stimulation (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation [TMS]) needed to improve memory, thinking, and mood. Our hope is that we can use TMS to PUSH against depression and prevent the onset of dementia.
Participants will complete questionnaires, memory and thinking skills tests, and a brain MRI. They will then be assigned a dose of TMS treatment and complete six days of treatment (about 3 hours each) within 14 days. Participants will repeat questionnaires, memory and thinking skills tests, and a brain MRI one week after treatment ends, and again 2 and 6 months after treatment.
A diagnosis is preferable, but we will also consider individuals with subjective concerns without a diagnosis. There is no cost to you. In fact, you will be compensated for your time.
Study Background
Researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina are conducting the PUSH (Plasticity Using Stimulation for Health) Against Dementia Study.
This study involves evaluating the right dose of non-invasive brain stimulation (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) to help MCI patients PUSH against memory decline and depression.
Participants will complete questionnaires, memory and thinking skills tests, and a brain MRI. They will then be assigned to a dose of TMS treatment and complete six days of treatment (about 3 hours each) within 14 days. Participants will repeat questionnaires, memory and thinking skills tests, and a brain MRI one week after treatment ends, and again 2 and 6 months after treatment.
Your participation may help us determine if brain stimulation can be used to improve memory, thinking, and mood, and what dose of stimulation works best!
Additional Information
The purpose of this research study is to determine the optimal dose of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to improve memory, thinking, and mood in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and depression.
You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 60-85
- Diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI)
- Actively experiencing depressive thoughts
- Have a study partner that is willing to participate as an informant
- No diagnosis of dementia or other major neurocognitive disorder
- No significant or unstable conditions that may impact cognition (e.g., heart failure, HIV, brain injury)
- Have not been treated with lecanemab (Lequembi), aducanumab (Aduhelm), or donanemab for MCI
- Able to undergo MRI scan
- No current diagnosis of substance use disorders
- No current diagnosis of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder
You will first undergo an Eligibility Screen to determine this is the right study for you. If you are found eligible, you will be enrolled in the study which includes:
- Attending a baseline visit
- Completing a blood draw, questionnaires, memory, and thinking skills tests, clinical interviews, and a brain MRI
- Completing six days of TMS treatment within 14 days
- The total time spent in treatment on a given treatment day is about 3 hours, which will include 10, 3-minute TMS sessions, each separated by 10 to 15-minute breaks
- Attending a follow-up visit 1 week post-treatment
- Repeat the questionnaires, memory and thinking skills test and brain MRI
- Attending follow-up visits 2 and 6 months post-treatment
- Repeat the questionnaires, memory and thinking skills test, and clinical interviews
Participants will be compensated up to $645 for their time. Travel reimbursement may be provided.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
