taVNS and Cognition

STUDY BASICS

Are you a healthy adult with normal or corrected-normal vision? Are you 18-40 years old? You may be eligible to participate in a research study to determine if non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) can improve performance and reduce stress.

STUDY PURPOSE

You are invited to participate in a study to determine if non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) can improve performance and reduce stress. NIBS has been used to increase or decrease activity in certain regions of the brain to treat conditions that involve unhealthy amounts of brain activity. Little is known about the potential for NIBS to improve brain function and reduce stress in healthy individuals. 

 

COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOU?

Eligible participants:

• Are healthy adults ages 18-40
• Are not pregnant
• Have normal or corrected-normal vision
• Are comfortable with all areas of this study: blood draws, non-invasive brain and peripheral nerve stimulation magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), loud noises, computerized cognitive testing, and viewing stressful images
• Weigh less than 300 lbs

WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT

We will take pictures of your brain with MRI and place electrodes on the outer portion of both ears that will activate your vagus nerve and produce mild tingling sensations. We will see if the stimulation produces different effects on the body based on changes in blood, physiological activity (e.g. heart rate, muscle activity, skin conductance, blood pressure), and mood. You will also complete cognitive tests that will test your reaction time. We will collect blood samples during your participation.