Effects and mechanisms of computerized cognitive training in Huntington's disease: protocol for a pilot study

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Neurology
• Cognitive Science

Background:

• Huntington's disease (HD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by significant cognitive decline.
• Currently, no effective treatments exist to halt or reverse the cognitive deterioration associated with HD.
• Computerized cognitive training (CCT) has demonstrated positive effects in other neurological conditions, but its utility in HD remains under-explored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of a 12-week multidomain computerized cognitive training (CCT) program in individuals with Huntington's disease (HD).
• To explore the underlying neural mechanisms, specifically functional brain network connectivity changes via MRI, associated with CCT in HD.
• To assess the feasibility of CCT in the HD population, including recruitment, adherence, and retention rates.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study design involving an intervention group receiving 12 weeks of multidomain CCT and a control group receiving lifestyle education.
• Primary outcome measure is the change in processing speed.
• Secondary outcomes include changes in other cognitive domains, functional brain network connectivity (fMRI), and psychosocial function.

Main Results:

• This section is to be filled after the study's completion and data analysis.

Conclusions:

• This pilot study aims to provide preliminary insights into the potential benefits of CCT for cognitive function in Huntington's disease.
• Findings may inform the design of larger, randomized controlled trials investigating CCT as a therapeutic intervention for HD.
• Understanding the neural mechanisms could elucidate how CCT impacts brain function in the context of HD.