Neural Basis of Human Working Memory

Summary

This ClinicalTrials.gov entry corresponds to the Neural Basis of Human Working Memory protocol approved under Vanderbilt University Medical Center IRB #251231. This study investigates the neural activity underlying human working memory, via local field potential changes (macro level) and/or single neuronal spiking changes (micro level) from depth electrodes placed for invasive seizure monitoring. Subjects will complete neurocognitive tasks while neural recordings are collected. Some patients will complete neurocognitive tasks while stimulation is applied via depth electrodes. Further understanding the neural activity changes underlying normal and impaired working memory may help to identify novel diagnostic methods and treatments for impaired working memory and may support the use of stimulation for treatment of memory disorders.

Eligibility

Age range

18+ years

Sex

All

Healthy volunteers

No

Interventions

• Behavioral
  Neurocognitive Tasks

  Participants complete computerized neurocognitive tasks assessing working memory, response inhibition, decision-making, reward processing, and other related cognitive functions during sEEG monitoring. Tasks may include the stop signal reaction time task, the n-back working memory task, the delayed response task, the match/nonmatch task, the gambling task, the card guessing task, and the emotional stop signal reaction time task. Intracranial neural activity is recorded during task performance, and select tasks may include research electrical stimulation delivered through the implanted sEEG electrodes.

• Device
  Ripple Neuromed Summit System

  Neurophysiology system designed to allow recording of neural signals as well as delivery of neural stimulation. The system is a portable unit which is connected to cables connected to the clinical electrodes. Neurophysiology signals from the electrodes can be recorded, amplified, and processed by the unit. The unit also has the ability to deliver electrical stimulation through the electrodes according to programmed parameters.

Location