Modulating Goal-directed Navigation Using Noninvasive Brain Stimulation

Description

Our specific aim is to examine the effects of TMS on spatial processing during goal-directed navigation. In these experiments the investigators will utilize a scalp-recorded brain oscillation called right posterior theta that is believed to index the sensitivity of the parahippocampal cortex to spatial context. Here the investigators will asked whether this electrophysiological signal can be modulated up or down using TMS while participants engage in virtual navigation tasks, and if so, whether it would affect the spatial encoding of rewards and subsequent choices during task performance.

Conditions

Spatial Navigation

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Study Overview

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Study Details

Study overview

Our specific aim is to examine the effects of TMS on spatial processing during goal-directed navigation. In these experiments the investigators will utilize a scalp-recorded brain oscillation called right posterior theta that is believed to index the sensitivity of the parahippocampal cortex to spatial context. Here the investigators will asked whether this electrophysiological signal can be modulated up or down using TMS while participants engage in virtual navigation tasks, and if so, whether it would affect the spatial encoding of rewards and subsequent choices during task performance.

Modulating Spatial Processing During Goal-directed Navigation Using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

Modulating Goal-directed Navigation Using Noninvasive Brain Stimulation

Condition
Spatial Navigation
Intervention / Treatment

-

Contacts and Locations

Newark

Rutgers University - Newark, Newark, New Jersey, United States, 07102

Participation Criteria

Researchers look for people who fit a certain description, called eligibility criteria. Some examples of these criteria are a person's general health condition or prior treatments.

For general information about clinical research, read Learn About Studies.

Eligibility Criteria

  • 1. Be between the ages of 18 and 55 years old.
  • 2. Not received substance abuse treatment within the previous 30 days.
  • 3. Be in stable mental and physical health.
  • 4. If female, test non-pregnant.
  • 5. No evidence of focal or diffuse brain lesion on MRI.
  • 6. Be willing to provide informed consent.
  • 7. Be able to comply with protocol requirements and likely to complete all study procedures.
  • 1. Contraindication to MRI (e.g., presence of metal in the skull, orbits or intracranial cavity, claustrophobia).
  • 2. Contraindication to rTMS (history of neurological disorder or seizure, increased intracranial pressure, brain surgery, or head trauma with loss of consciousness for \> 15 minutes, implanted electronic device, metal in the head, or pregnancy).
  • 3. History of autoimmune, endocrine, viral, or vascular disorder affecting the brain.
  • 4. History or MRI evidence of neurological disorder that would lead to local or diffuse brain lesions or significant physical impairment.
  • 5. Life time history of mental disorders such as: Bipolar Affective disorder (BPAD), Schizophrenia, Post-traumatic Stress disorder (PTSD) or Dementia or Major Depression.

Ages Eligible for Study

18 Years to 55 Years

Sexes Eligible for Study

ALL

Accepts Healthy Volunteers

Yes

Collaborators and Investigators

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey,

Travis E Baker, PRINCIPAL_INVESTIGATOR, Rutgers University

Study Record Dates

2025-08-31