TACS-OCD: Investigating the efficacy of Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation in the treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

This project aims to investigate the effectiveness of transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) therapy in alleviating symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

school Student intake
This project is open for Honours, Masters, MPhil and PhD students.
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Project status

Current

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About

This project aims to investigate the effectiveness of transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) therapy in alleviating symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). 

Through a large-scale clinical trial (N=100), we seek to elucidate the underlying neural mechanisms of tACS and its impact on OCD severity. Utilising innovative EEG techniques and advanced statistical analyses, we aim to characterise differences in brain connectivity and oscillatory activity in individuals with OCD with tACS treatments. By leveraging a comprehensive dataset, we aim to refine our understanding of OCD pathophysiology and enhance the precision of tACS treatment targeting. Ultimately, our research strives to provide valuable insights into novel therapeutic approaches for OCD, potentially leading to improved treatment outcomes and better quality of life for individuals affected by this debilitating disorder. Our study aligns with SMP's theme of interdisciplinary collaboration by integrating EEG techniques, statistical analyses, and clinical trials methodology to address complex mental health challenges.

Members

Principal investigator

Dr Magelage (Prabhavi)  Perera

Postdoctoral Fellow (P Fitzgerald Research Group)

Co-investigator

Neil Bailey

Senior Research Fellow (P Fitzgerald Research Group)

Director, ANU School of Medicine and Psychology
Senior Staff Specialist, Canberra Health Services
(EA: Cheryl Morse E: cheryl.morse@anu.edu.au)

Associate Professor Bernadette Fitzgibbon

Honorary Associate Professor

Stephanie Gotsis

Postdoctoral Research Fellow (P Fitzgerald Research Group)