Transcranial Ultrasound Stimulation for Thinking Problems in Schizophrenia
Tests transcranial ultrasound stimulation on thinking difficulties in adults with schizophrenia.
Plain-language title generated from the registry record
Registry title: Efficacy and Mechanisms of TUS on Cognitive Deficits in Schizophrenia: Based on the Hippocampal-Prefrontal Circuit
Key facts
- Where
- Shanghai, ChinaSee the site
Could this be for you?
Answer for yourself. This is not a decision: only the study team can say whether you can take part.
- Are you between 18 and 50 years old?
Source: NCT06904092, who can take part
Where in China
- Shanghai Mental Health CenterShanghai, ChinaNo 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
- Shanghai Mental Health Center
- Trial code
- NCT06904092
- Record updated
- 12 June 2026
- Original description
Cognitive deficit is a core symptom of schizophrenia related to poorer functional outcome. Prior studies indicated that abnormalities in the hippocampus-prefrontal circuit and glutamate/GABA imbalances may lead to cognitive deficits. Based on the current background and our previous studies, it has been proved that TUS can modulate neural excitability and plasticity in the hippocampus. In this double-blind, randomized study, the efficacy of different treatment options and mechanisms of TUS on cognitive deficits will be investigated.Read full original descriptionShow less
Efficacy and Mechanisms of Transcranial Ultrasound Stimulation (TUS) on Cognitive Deficits in Schizophrenia：Based on the Hippocampal-Prefrontal Circuit
Cognitive deficit is a core symptom of schizophrenia related to poorer functional outcome. Prior studies indicated that abnormalities in the hippocampus-prefrontal circuit and glutamate/GABA imbalances may lead to cognitive deficits. Based on the current background and our previous studies, it has been proved that TUS can modulate neural excitability and plasticity in the hippocampus. In this double-blind, randomized study, the efficacy of different treatment options and mechanisms of TUS on cognitive deficits will be investigated.
Inclusion: Meet the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia ; Age18-50, right-handed, Han nationality; Presence of cognitive deficit: defined as d' value <0.5 in associative memory test; Be in a stable condition, received second-generation antipsychotics for at least 4 weeks or more; Written informed consent.
Exclusion: Ruled out share antiepileptic drugs (carbamazepine, valproic acid salt) or larger doses of benzodiazepine drugs (diazepam > 10mg/day, clonazepam > 2mg/day etc.), if necessary, remain unchanged during the course of treatment; Current or past neurological illness, severe physical diseases, substance abuse or alcohol dependence, mental retardation, pregnancy or lactation; Uncooperative or risky patients with high excitement, stupor, disorder of words and deeds, negative suicide, etc; History of MECT or other physical therapy within 6 months; History of epilepsy, or epileptic waves on the baseline EEG; Contraindications to TUS and MRI are present.