Gamma Neurofeedback for Schizophrenia
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This study is a confirmatory, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial (RCT) testing whether gamma EEG neurofeedback (EEG-NFB) improves working memory in adults with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. Participants are randomly assigned to receive either active gamma EEG-NFB (real-time feedback of frontal gamma brain activity) or sham EEG-NFB (false pre-recorded feedback), twice weekly for 12 weeks. Working memory (N-back task), brain gamma coherence, and everyday community functioning are assessed at baseline, mid-treatment, end of treatment, and follow-up.
Who Is on the Research Team?
Fiza Singh, MD
Principal Investigator
University of California, San Diego
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults aged 18-55 with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder who are stable, haven't changed antipsychotic meds recently, and have not had recent hospitalizations or ECT. Participants must not have bipolar disorder or a current major depressive episode.Inclusion Criteria
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Gamma EEG Neurofeedback
Trial Overview
The study tests whether gamma EEG neurofeedback (real-time brainwave feedback) can improve working memory in people with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. Participants get either real neurofeedback or a placebo version twice weekly for 12 weeks.
How Is the Trial Designed?
2
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Placebo Group
Participants receive real-time gamma EEG neurofeedback targeting frontal gamma coherence (F3 and F4 electrodes, 30-50 Hz) via a CGX wireless 32-electrode headset. Each session includes a 1-minute resting baseline followed by two 15-minute training blocks. Positive reinforcement (images and music) is contingent on meeting an individualized gamma coherence threshold. Sessions are twice weekly for 12 weeks (30 total sessions).
Participants undergo identical procedures to the active arm including EEG electrode placement and the same session structure, twice weekly for 12 weeks. However, the feedback displayed is pre-recorded from prior participants and has no relationship to the participant's own brain activity. Participants and outcome assessors are blinded to group assignment.
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of California, San Diego
Lead Sponsor
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