Restructuring the Alpha-Gamma Code in Aging Vision
Rescuing Visual Perception in Aging Adults by Restructuring the Alpha-Gamma Neural Code
Boston University Charles River Campus
240 participants
Apr 2, 2026
INTERVENTIONAL
Conditions
Summary
Tests whether age-related visual deficits arise from disrupted alpha-gamma coupling in visual cortex (V1) and MT. Uses fMRI, source-resolved HD-EEG, and personalized complex-waveform HD-tACS to (1) quantify aging effects on phase-amplitude coupling, (2) drive PAC into a preferred "gamma-at-alpha-troughs" state, and (3) bidirectionally change perception by aligning gamma to alpha troughs vs peaks. Two five-day, double-blind, sham-controlled studies (n=120 each) target contrast sensitivity (V1) and 3D shape-from-motion (MT), aiming for mechanistic insight and remediation in older adults with implications for ADRD.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria2
- + years of age or older
- normal or corrected-to-normal visual acuity, color vision, and stereo vision
Exclusion Criteria12
- not pregnant,
- no metal implants in head,
- no implanted electronic devices,
- no history of neurological problems or head injury,
- no skin sensitivity,
- no claustrophobia,
- no dementia (normal Mini Mental State Examination between 24-30; Montreal Cognitive Assessment > 25)
- no depression (normal Beck Depression Inventory II <13; Geriatric Depression Scale < 10)
- no ophthalmological diseases (e.g., strabismus, glaucoma, cataract, macular degeneration)
- no history of psychosis
- no cognitive deficits (MMSE score>24; MoCA>25)
- cannot be taking any psychoactive medication.
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Interventions
Low-intensity and safe, noninvasive application of electrical current to the human scalp with the goal of gradually modulating levels of neuronal excitability.
Locations(1)
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NCT07208318