Testing magnetic stimulation of brain networks linked to hippocampus in epilepsy
Tests magnetic brain stimulation in adults with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy.
Plain-language title generated from the registry record
Registry title: Hippocampal Network Function in Epilepsy
Key facts
- Where
- Chicago, United StatesSee the site
Where in United States
- University of ChicagoChicago, United StatesNo longer taking part
Questions to ask the study team
- How often do I need to come in, and for how long each time?
- Are travel costs paid?
- Can I keep my own doctor?
- What happens if I want to stop?
Trial details
- Who runs it
- University of Chicago
- Trial code
- NCT06521437
- Record updated
- 12 September 2025
- Original description
The aim of this pilot study is to understand hippocampal network function in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE) and to test whether transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) targeting the network of the hippocampus can change hippocampal-dependent memory task performance and epileptic activity in people with (MTLE). Positive findings would implicate the hippocampal network as a source of these typical primary MTLE symptoms.Read full original descriptionShow less
Hippocampal Network Function in Epilepsy
The aim of this pilot study is to understand hippocampal network function in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE) and to test whether transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) targeting the network of the hippocampus can change hippocampal-dependent memory task performance and epileptic activity in people with (MTLE). Positive findings would implicate the hippocampal network as a source of these typical primary MTLE symptoms.
Subjects with a primary diagnosis of MTLE will be enrolled in a non-randomized, non-blinded pilot experiment to test target engagement and preliminary efficacy of a novel neurostimulation approach targeting the hippocampal network. At baseline, subjects will undergo neurocognitive testing for hippocampal-dependent memory and functional magnetic resonance imagining (fMRI) neuroimaging assessment of brain structure and task-dependent activity. They will also receive scalp-electroencephalography (EEG) to measure interictal epileptiform discharge (IED) frequency at baseline, and will complete a seizure diary for one month. They will then receive high-frequency repetitive TMS targeting an area of parieto-occipital cortex defined based on fMRI connectivity with the hippocampus measured at baseline. The baseline assessments will then be repeated, using an alternate form of the memory test. The investigators will analyze changes from baseline in memory task performance, fMRI activity of the hippocampal network, IED frequency, and reported seizure frequency.
Inclusion: Diagnosis of (pharmacoresistant) MTLE; Age 18+ years old; Native English speakers; Normal or corrected-to-normal near and far vision; Stable antiepileptic drugs (AED) regimen (unchanged for at least 1 month).
Exclusion: Taking drugs that impair cognition other than anticonvulsive medication for the treatment of MTLE (e.g., antipsychotics or psychostimulants); Diagnosis of neurological illness other than MTLE; Children under the age of 18 years.