Intracranial frequency stimulation linked to improved memory, cognition in Alzheimer’s

Results from a clinical trial examining intracranial stimulation using a novel device in those with mild Alzheimer’s disease showed that treatment led to improvements in memory, cognitive function and blood flow.

The safety, efficacy and tolerability of the Deep Intracranial Frequency Stimulation (DIFS) technology was examined in the TRANSFORM-AD clinical trial, according to a press release from Nexalin Technology.

TRANSFORM-AD was a double-blind, controlled, single-center trial of 46 adults with mild AD who were randomly assigned 1:1 to receive either 30 1-hour sessions of 40 Hz gamma transcranial alternating current stimulation with Nexalin’s DIFS device or sham treatment over 15 consecutive days.

Researchers assessed cognitive function, structural resonance MRI and a modified form of EEG at baseline, 15 days and 3 months following randomization.

Data showed that those in the DIFS group logged gains in both the Mini-Mental State Examination score and Montreal Cognitive Assessment scores, as well as a boost in hippocampal neural activity through increased blood flow as measured by functional MRI scans.

DIFS treatment was generally well tolerated, with only minor issues reported such as mild tingling during treatment sessions, according to the release.

“This study marks a major milestone for Nexalin’s Deep Intracranial Frequency Stimulation technology and validates our belief that non-invasive brain stimulation has the potential to transform the treatment landscape for Alzheimer’s disease,” David Owens, MD, chief medical officer of Nexalin, said in the release. “Improving cognitive outcomes, especially in memory, is crucial for enhancing the quality of life for patients and their families.”

Reference:

Tang Y, et al. Alzheimer’s Res Ther. 2024;doi:10.1186/s13195-024-10570-0.