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Paßmann S, Baselgia S, Kasten FH, Herrmann CS, Rasch B. Differential online and offline effects of theta-tACS on memory encoding and retrieval. COGNITIVE, AFFECTIVE & BEHAVIORAL NEUROSCIENCE 2024; 24:894-911. [PMID: 39085585 PMCID: PMC11390785 DOI: 10.3758/s13415-024-01204-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Theta oscillations support memory formation, but their exact contribution to the communication between prefrontal cortex (PFC) and the hippocampus is unknown. We tested the functional relevance of theta oscillations as a communication link between both areas for memory formation using transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS). Healthy, young participants learned two lists of Dutch-German word pairs and retrieved them immediately and with a 30-min delay. In the encoding group (N = 30), tACS was applied during the encoding of list 1. List 2 was used to test stimulation aftereffects. In the retrieval group (N = 23), we stimulated during the delayed recall. In both groups, we applied tACS bilaterally at prefrontal and tempo-parietal sites, using either individualized theta frequency or 15 Hz (as control), according to a within-subject design. Stimulation with theta-tACS did not alter overall learning performance. An exploratory analysis revealed that immediate recall improved when word-pairs were learned after theta-tACS (list 2). Applying theta-tACS during retrieval had detrimental effects on memory. No changes in the power of the respective frequency bands were observed. Our results do not support the notion that impacting the communication between PFC and the hippocampus during a task by bilateral tACS improves memory. However, we do find evidence that direct stimulation had a trend for negatively interfering effects during immediate and delayed recall. Hints for beneficial effects on memory only occurred with aftereffects of the stimulation. Future studies need to further examine the effects during and after stimulation on memory formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sven Paßmann
- Cognitive Biopsychology and Methods, Department of Psychology, Université Fribourg, Rue P.-A.-de-Faucigny 2, 1700, Fribourg, Switzerland.
- Department of Neurology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany.
| | - Sandrine Baselgia
- Cognitive Biopsychology and Methods, Department of Psychology, Université Fribourg, Rue P.-A.-de-Faucigny 2, 1700, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Florian H Kasten
- Centre de Recherche Cerveau & Cognition, CNRS, Toulouse, France
- Université Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France
| | - Christoph S Herrmann
- Experimental Psychology Lab, Department of Psychology, Carl Von Ossietzky Universität, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Björn Rasch
- Cognitive Biopsychology and Methods, Department of Psychology, Université Fribourg, Rue P.-A.-de-Faucigny 2, 1700, Fribourg, Switzerland
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Takahashi K, Glinski B, Salehinejad MA, Jamil A, Chang AYC, Kuo MF, Nitsche MA. Induction and stabilization of delta frequency brain oscillations by phase-synchronized rTMS and tACS. Brain Stimul 2024; 17:S1935-861X(24)00157-8. [PMID: 39270929 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2024.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 09/06/2024] [Accepted: 09/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brain oscillations in the delta frequency band have been linked with deep sleep and consolidation of declarative memory during sleep. However, the causal relationship of these associations remains not competely clarified, primarily due to constraints by technical limitations of brain stimulation approaches suited to induce and stabilize respective oscillatory activity in the human brain. The objective of this study was to establish a non-invasive brain stimulation protocol capable of reliably inducing, and stabilizing respective oscillatory activity in the delta frequency range. HYPOTHESIS We aimed to develop an efficient non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) protocol for delta frequency induction and stabilization via concurrent, phase-locked repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS). We hypothesized that rTMS induces oscillatory resting-state activity in the delta frequency and that tACS stabilizes this effect, as has been shown before for alpha and theta frequencies. METHODS 19 healthy participants took part in a repeated-measures experimental protocol. We applied rTMS pulses synchronized with the peak or trough phase of 0.75Hz tACS over the bilateral prefrontal cortex. Resting state EEG in eyes-open (EO) and eyes-closed (EC) conditions was recorded before, immediately after and every 10 min for up to 1 hour after intervention. RESULTS rTMS phase-synchronized to the trough of the tACS waveform significantly increased delta frequency activity for up to 60 min in both EO and EC conditions after stimulation. The effects extended from frontal to temporal regions and this enhancement of oscillatory activity was shown to be specific for the delta frequency range. CONCLUSION Concurrent, trough-synchronized 0.75 Hz rTMS combined with tACS may be a reliable protocol to induce long-lasting oscillatory activity in the delta frequency range. The results of the current study might perspectively be relevant for clinical treatment of sleep disturbances which are accompanied by pathologically altered brain oscillations, and enhancement of memory consolidation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuri Takahashi
- Department of Psychology and Neurosciences, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors, Dortmund, Germany; Department of Psychology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Benedikt Glinski
- Department of Psychology and Neurosciences, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors, Dortmund, Germany; Department of Psychology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Mohammed Ali Salehinejad
- Department of Psychology and Neurosciences, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors, Dortmund, Germany; School of Cognitive Sciences, Institute for Research in Fundamental Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Asif Jamil
- Division of Neuropsychiatry & Neuromodulation, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School & Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Min-Fang Kuo
- Department of Psychology and Neurosciences, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Michael A Nitsche
- Department of Psychology and Neurosciences, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors, Dortmund, Germany; Bielefeld University, University Hospital OWL, Protestant Hospital of Bethel Foundation, University Clinic of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Bielefeld, Germany; German Centre for Mental Health (DZPG), Bochum, Germany
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Yang C, Jung B, Lee SH. Transcranial Electrical Stimulation: Clinical Implication and Practice for Treatment of Psychiatric Illness. CLINICAL PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY AND NEUROSCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL SCIENTIFIC JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN COLLEGE OF NEUROPSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 22:391-404. [PMID: 39069679 PMCID: PMC11289600 DOI: 10.9758/cpn.23.1118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Brain electrical stimulation, particularly non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) techniques such as transcranial electrical stimulation (tES), have emerged as a promising treatment for various psychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. tES techniques, such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), and transcranial random noise stimulation (tRNS), are cost-effective and safe interventions that are designed to affect neuronal circuits in the brain using various modalities. Although tES has shown effectiveness in the treatment of psychiatric disorders, there is a lack of comprehensive papers that consider its clinical implications. Therefore, this review aims to evaluate the clinical implications of tES and provide practical guidance for the treatment of psychiatric illnesses. Moreover, this review provides an overview of tES techniques and their mechanisms of action and summarizes recent clinical studies that have examined the use of tES for psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaeyeon Yang
- Clinical Emotion and Cognition Research Laboratory, Inje University, Goyang, Korea
| | - Bori Jung
- Clinical Emotion and Cognition Research Laboratory, Inje University, Goyang, Korea
- Department of Psychology, Sogang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seung-Hwan Lee
- Clinical Emotion and Cognition Research Laboratory, Inje University, Goyang, Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Ilsan Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Goyang, Korea
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Abellaneda-Pérez K, Potash RM, Pascual-Leone A, Sacchet MD. Neuromodulation and meditation: A review and synthesis toward promoting well-being and understanding consciousness and brain. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 166:105862. [PMID: 39186992 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
The neuroscience of meditation is providing insight into meditation's beneficial effects on well-being and informing understanding of consciousness. However, further research is needed to explicate mechanisms linking brain activity and meditation. Non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) presents a promising approach for causally investigating neural mechanisms of meditation. Prior NIBS-meditation research has predominantly targeted frontal and parietal cortices suggesting that it might be possible to boost the behavioral and neural effects of meditation with NIBS. Moreover, NIBS has revealed distinct neural signatures in long-term meditators. Nonetheless, methodological variations in NIBS-meditation research contributes to challenges for definitive interpretation of previous results. Future NIBS studies should further investigate core substrates of meditation, including specific brain networks and oscillations, and causal neural mechanisms of advanced meditation. Overall, NIBS-meditation research holds promise for enhancing meditation-based interventions in support of well-being and resilience in both non-clinical and clinical populations, and for uncovering the brain-mind mechanisms of meditation and consciousness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kilian Abellaneda-Pérez
- Departament de Medicina, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Institut de Neurociències, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institut Guttmann, Institut Universitari de Neurorehabilitació adscrit a la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Ruby M Potash
- Meditation Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Alvaro Pascual-Leone
- Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research and Deanna and Sidney Wolk Center for Memory Health, Hebrew SeniorLife, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Matthew D Sacchet
- Meditation Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA.
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Sengupta A, Banerjee S, Ganesh S, Grover S, Sridharan D. The right posterior parietal cortex mediates spatial reorienting of attentional choice bias. Nat Commun 2024; 15:6938. [PMID: 39138185 PMCID: PMC11322534 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-51283-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Attention facilitates behavior by enhancing perceptual sensitivity (sensory processing) and choice bias (decisional weighting) for attended information. Whether distinct neural substrates mediate these distinct components of attention remains unknown. We investigate the causal role of key nodes of the right posterior parietal cortex (rPPC) in the forebrain attention network in sensitivity versus bias control. Two groups of participants performed a cued attention task while we applied either inhibitory, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (n = 28) or 40 Hz transcranial alternating current stimulation (n = 26) to the dorsal rPPC. We show that rPPC stimulation - with either modality - impairs task performance by selectively altering attentional modulation of bias but not sensitivity. Specifically, participants' bias toward the uncued, but not the cued, location reduced significantly following rPPC stimulation - an effect that was consistent across both neurostimulation cohorts. In sum, the dorsal rPPC causally mediates the reorienting of choice bias, one particular component of visual spatial attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankita Sengupta
- Centre for Neuroscience, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, 560012, India
| | - Sanjna Banerjee
- Centre for Neuroscience, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, 560012, India
- Foundation of Art and Health India, Bangalore, 560066, India
| | - Suhas Ganesh
- Centre for Neuroscience, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, 560012, India
- Verily Life Sciences, San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Shrey Grover
- Centre for Neuroscience, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, 560012, India
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Devarajan Sridharan
- Centre for Neuroscience, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, 560012, India.
- Department of Computer Science and Automation, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, 560012, India.
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Maccora S, Sardo P, Giglia G, Torrente A, Di Stefano V, Brighina F. Transcranial alternating current stimulation can modulate the blink reflex excitability. Effects of a 10- and 20-Hz tACS session on the blink reflex recovery cycle in healthy subjects. Neurol Sci 2024:10.1007/s10072-024-07719-x. [PMID: 39096396 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-024-07719-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The blink reflex excitability, assessed through paired electrical stimuli responses, has been modulated using traditional non-invasive neurostimulation techniques. Recently, transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation (tACS) emerged as a tool to modulate brain oscillations implicated in various motor, perceptual, and cognitive functions. This study aims to investigate the influence of 20-Hz and 10-Hz tACS sessions on the primary motor cortex and their impact on blink reflex excitability. MATERIALS AND METHODS Fifteen healthy volunteers underwent 10-min tACS sessions (intensity 1 mA) with active/reference electrodes placed over C4/Pz, delivering 20-Hz, 10-Hz, and sham stimulation. The blink reflex recovery cycle (BRrc) was assessed using the R2 amplitude ratio at various interstimulus intervals (ISIs) before (T0), immediately after (T1), and 30 min post-tACS (T2). RESULTS Both 10-Hz and 20-Hz tACS sessions significantly increased R2 ratio at T1 (10-Hz: p = 0.02; 20-Hz: p < 0.001) and T2 (10-Hz: p = 0.01; 20-Hz: p < 0.001) compared to baseline (T0). Notably, 20-Hz tACS induced a significantly greater increase in blink reflex excitability compared to sham at both T1 (p = 0.04) and T2 (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION This study demonstrates the modulatory effect of tACS on trigemino-facial reflex circuits, with a lasting impact on BRrc. Beta-band frequency tACS exhibited a more pronounced effect than alpha-band frequency, highlighting the influential role of beta-band oscillations in the motor cortex on blink reflex excitability modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Maccora
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostic (BIND), University of Palermo, Palermo, Sicily, Italy.
- ARNAS Civico, Di Cristina, Via del Vespro 143, 90129, Benfratelli, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Pierangelo Sardo
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostic (BIND), University of Palermo, Palermo, Sicily, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Giglia
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostic (BIND), University of Palermo, Palermo, Sicily, Italy
| | - Angelo Torrente
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostic (BIND), University of Palermo, Palermo, Sicily, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Di Stefano
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostic (BIND), University of Palermo, Palermo, Sicily, Italy
| | - Filippo Brighina
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostic (BIND), University of Palermo, Palermo, Sicily, Italy
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Aksenov A, Renaud-D’Ambra M, Volpert V, Beuter A. Phase-shifted tACS can modulate cortical alpha waves in human subjects. Cogn Neurodyn 2024; 18:1575-1592. [PMID: 39104698 PMCID: PMC11297852 DOI: 10.1007/s11571-023-09997-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
In the present study, we investigated traveling waves induced by transcranial alternating current stimulation in the alpha frequency band of healthy subjects. Electroencephalographic data were recorded in 12 healthy subjects before, during, and after phase-shifted stimulation with a device combining both electroencephalographic and stimulation capacities. In addition, we analyzed the results of numerical simulations and compared them to the results of identical analysis on real EEG data. The results of numerical simulations indicate that imposed transcranial alternating current stimulation induces a rotating electric field. The direction of waves induced by stimulation was observed more often during at least 30 s after the end of stimulation, demonstrating the presence of aftereffects of the stimulation. Results suggest that the proposed approach could be used to modulate the interaction between distant areas of the cortex. Non-invasive transcranial alternating current stimulation can be used to facilitate the propagation of circulating waves at a particular frequency and in a controlled direction. The results presented open new opportunities for developing innovative and personalized transcranial alternating current stimulation protocols to treat various neurological disorders. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11571-023-09997-1.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vitaly Volpert
- Institute Camille Jordan, UMR 5208 CNRS, University Lyon 1, Villeurbanne, France
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Lefaucheur JP, Moro E, Shirota Y, Ugawa Y, Grippe T, Chen R, Benninger DH, Jabbari B, Attaripour S, Hallett M, Paulus W. Clinical neurophysiology in the treatment of movement disorders: IFCN handbook chapter. Clin Neurophysiol 2024; 164:57-99. [PMID: 38852434 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2024.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
In this review, different aspects of the use of clinical neurophysiology techniques for the treatment of movement disorders are addressed. First of all, these techniques can be used to guide neuromodulation techniques or to perform therapeutic neuromodulation as such. Neuromodulation includes invasive techniques based on the surgical implantation of electrodes and a pulse generator, such as deep brain stimulation (DBS) or spinal cord stimulation (SCS) on the one hand, and non-invasive techniques aimed at modulating or even lesioning neural structures by transcranial application. Movement disorders are one of the main areas of indication for the various neuromodulation techniques. This review focuses on the following techniques: DBS, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), low-intensity transcranial electrical stimulation, including transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), and focused ultrasound (FUS), including high-intensity magnetic resonance-guided FUS (MRgFUS), and pulsed mode low-intensity transcranial FUS stimulation (TUS). The main clinical conditions in which neuromodulation has proven its efficacy are Parkinson's disease, dystonia, and essential tremor, mainly using DBS or MRgFUS. There is also some evidence for Tourette syndrome (DBS), Huntington's disease (DBS), cerebellar ataxia (tDCS), and axial signs (SCS) and depression (rTMS) in PD. The development of non-invasive transcranial neuromodulation techniques is limited by the short-term clinical impact of these techniques, especially rTMS, in the context of very chronic diseases. However, at-home use (tDCS) or current advances in the design of closed-loop stimulation (tACS) may open new perspectives for the application of these techniques in patients, favored by their easier use and lower rate of adverse effects compared to invasive or lesioning methods. Finally, this review summarizes the evidence for keeping the use of electromyography to optimize the identification of muscles to be treated with botulinum toxin injection, which is indicated and widely performed for the treatment of various movement disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Pascal Lefaucheur
- Clinical Neurophysiology Unit, Henri Mondor University Hospital, AP-HP, Créteil, France; EA 4391, ENT Team, Paris-Est Créteil University, Créteil, France.
| | - Elena Moro
- Grenoble Alpes University, Division of Neurology, CHU of Grenoble, Grenoble Institute of Neuroscience, Grenoble, France
| | - Yuichiro Shirota
- Department of Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshikazu Ugawa
- Department of Human Neurophysiology, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Talyta Grippe
- Division of Neurology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Neuroscience Graduate Program, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Krembil Brain Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Robert Chen
- Division of Neurology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Krembil Brain Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - David H Benninger
- Service of Neurology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Bahman Jabbari
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sanaz Attaripour
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Mark Hallett
- Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Walter Paulus
- Department of Neurology, Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich, Germany
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Lee TW, Tramontano G. Neural consequences of 5-Hz transcranial alternating current stimulation over right hemisphere: An eLORETA EEG study. Neurosci Lett 2024; 835:137849. [PMID: 38825146 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2024.137849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) at 5-Hz to the right hemisphere can effectively alleviate anxiety symptoms. This study aimed to explore the neural mechanisms that drive the therapeutic benefits. METHODS We collected electroencephalography (EEG) data from 24 participants with anxiety disorders before and after a tACS treatment session. tACS was applied over the right hemisphere, with 1.0 mA at F4, 1.0 mA at P4, and 2.0 mA at T8 (10-10 EEG convention). With eLORETA, we transformed the scalp signals into the current source density in the cortex. We then assessed the differences between post- and pre-treatment brain maps across multiple spectra (delta to low gamma) with non-parametric statistics. RESULTS We observed a trend of heightened power in alpha and reduced power in mid-to-high beta and low gamma, in accord with the EEG markers of anxiolytic effects reported in previous studies. Additionally, we observed a consistent trend of de-synchronization at the stimulating sites across spectra. CONCLUSION tACS 5-Hz over the right hemisphere demonstrated EEG markers of anxiety reduction. The after-effects of tACS on the brain are intricate and cannot be explained solely by the widely circulated entrainment theory. Rather, our results support the involvement of plasticity mechanisms in the offline effects of tACS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tien-Wen Lee
- The NeuroCognitive Institute (NCI) Clinical Research Foundation, NJ 07856, USA
| | - Gerald Tramontano
- The NeuroCognitive Institute (NCI) Clinical Research Foundation, NJ 07856, USA.
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Thiele C, Rufener KS, Repplinger S, Zaehle T, Ruhnau P. Transcranial temporal interference stimulation (tTIS) influences event-related alpha activity during mental rotation. Psychophysiology 2024:e14651. [PMID: 38997805 DOI: 10.1111/psyp.14651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
Non-invasive brain stimulation techniques offer therapeutic potential for neurological and psychiatric disorders. However, current methods are often limited in their stimulation depth. The novel transcranial temporal interference stimulation (tTIS) aims to overcome this limitation by non-invasively targeting deeper brain regions. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of tTIS in modulating alpha activity during a mental rotation task. The effects of tTIS were compared with transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) and a sham control. Participants were randomly assigned to a tTIS, tACS, or sham group. They performed alternating blocks of resting and mental rotation tasks before, during, and after stimulation. During the stimulation blocks, participants received 20 min of stimulation adjusted to their individual alpha frequency (IAF). We assessed shifts in resting state alpha power, event-related desynchronization (ERD) of alpha activity during mental rotation, as well as resulting improvements in behavioral performance. Our results indicate tTIS and tACS to be effective in modulating cortical alpha activity during mental rotation, leading to an increase in ERD from pre- to poststimulation as well as compared to sham stimulation. However, this increase in ERD was not correlated with enhanced mental rotation performance, and resting state alpha power remained unchanged. Our findings underscore the complex nature of tTIS and tACS efficacy, indicating that stimulation effects are more observable during active cognitive tasks, while their impacts are less pronounced on resting neuronal systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carsten Thiele
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke-University, University Clinic of Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Otto-von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Katharina S Rufener
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Otto-von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine of Childhood and Adolescents, Otto-von-Guericke-University, University Clinic of Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Repplinger
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke-University, University Clinic of Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Otto-von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Tino Zaehle
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke-University, University Clinic of Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Otto-von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Philipp Ruhnau
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Otto-von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
- School of Psychology and Humanities, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
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11
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De Koninck BP, Brazeau D, Deshaies AA, Briand MM, Maschke C, Williams V, Arbour C, Williamson D, Duclos C, Bernard F, Blain-Moraes S, De Beaumont L. Modulation of brain activity in brain-injured patients with a disorder of consciousness in intensive care with repeated 10-Hz transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS): a randomised controlled trial protocol. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e078281. [PMID: 38991682 PMCID: PMC11243138 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-078281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Therapeutic interventions for disorders of consciousness lack consistency; evidence supports non-invasive brain stimulation, but few studies assess neuromodulation in acute-to-subacute brain-injured patients. This study aims to validate the feasibility and assess the effect of a multi-session transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) intervention in subacute brain-injured patients on recovery of consciousness, related brain oscillations and brain network dynamics. METHODS AND ANALYSES The study is comprised of two phases: a validation phase (n=12) and a randomised controlled trial (n=138). Both phases will be conducted in medically stable brain-injured adult patients (traumatic brain injury and hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy), with a Glasgow Coma Scale score ≤12 after continuous sedation withdrawal. Recruitment will occur at the intensive care unit of a Level 1 Trauma Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The intervention includes a 20 min 10 Hz tACS at 1 mA intensity or a sham session over parieto-occipital cortical sites, repeated over five consecutive days. The current's frequency targets alpha brain oscillations (8-13 Hz), known to be associated with consciousness. Resting-state electroencephalogram (EEG) will be recorded four times daily for five consecutive days: pre and post-intervention, at 60 and 120 min post-tACS. Two additional recordings will be included: 24 hours and 1-week post-protocol. Multimodal measures (blood samples, pupillometry, behavioural consciousness assessments (Coma Recovery Scale-revised), actigraphy measures) will be acquired from baseline up to 1 week after the stimulation. EEG signal analysis will focus on the alpha bandwidth (8-13 Hz) using spectral and functional network analyses. Phone assessments at 3, 6 and 12 months post-tACS, will measure long-term functional recovery, quality of life and caregivers' burden. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval for this study has been granted by the Research Ethics Board of the CIUSSS du Nord-de-l'Île-de-Montréal (Project ID 2021-2279). The findings of this two-phase study will be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed academic journal and submitted for presentation at conferences. The trial's results will be published on a public trial registry database (ClinicalTrials.gov). TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT05833568.
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Affiliation(s)
- Béatrice P De Koninck
- Psychology, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Research Center, Hopital du Sacre-Coeur de Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Daphnee Brazeau
- Psychology, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Research Center, Hopital du Sacre-Coeur de Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Marie-Michele Briand
- CIUSSS du Nord-de-l'Ile-de-Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- IRDPQ, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Charlotte Maschke
- McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Montreal General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Virginie Williams
- Research Center, Hopital du Sacre-Coeur de Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Caroline Arbour
- Research Center, Hopital du Sacre-Coeur de Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Catherine Duclos
- Research Center, Hopital du Sacre-Coeur de Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Francis Bernard
- Research Center, Hopital du Sacre-Coeur de Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Stefanie Blain-Moraes
- Montreal General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Louis De Beaumont
- Research Center, Hopital du Sacre-Coeur de Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Surgery, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Wei J, Alamia A, Yao Z, Huang G, Li L, Liang Z, Zhang L, Zhou C, Song Z, Zhang Z. State-Dependent tACS Effects Reveal the Potential Causal Role of Prestimulus Alpha Traveling Waves in Visual Contrast Detection. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e2023232024. [PMID: 38811165 PMCID: PMC11223459 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2023-23.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
The intricate relationship between prestimulus alpha oscillations and visual contrast detection variability has been the focus of numerous studies. However, the causal impact of prestimulus alpha traveling waves on visual contrast detection remains largely unexplored. In our research, we sought to discern the causal link between prestimulus alpha traveling waves and visual contrast detection across different levels of mental fatigue. Using electroencephalography alongside a visual detection task with 30 healthy adults (13 females; 17 males), we identified a robust negative correlation between prestimulus alpha forward traveling waves (FTWs) and visual contrast threshold (VCT). Inspired by this correlation, we utilized 45/-45° phase-shifted transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) in a sham-controlled, double-blind, within-subject experiment with 33 healthy adults (23 females; 10 males) to directly modulate these alpha traveling waves. After the application of 45° phase-shifted tACS, we observed a substantial decrease in FTW and an increase in backward traveling waves, along with a concurrent increase in VCT, compared with the sham condition. These changes were particularly pronounced under a low fatigue state. The findings of state-dependent tACS effects reveal the potential causal role of prestimulus alpha traveling waves in visual contrast detection. Moreover, our study highlights the potential of 45/-45° phase-shifted tACS in cognitive modulation and therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinwen Wei
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Andrea Alamia
- CerCo, CNRS, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Ziqing Yao
- Department of Psychology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Gan Huang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Linling Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Zhen Liang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Li Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Changsong Zhou
- Department of Physics, Centre for Nonlinear Studies and Beijing-Hong Kong-Singapore Joint Centre for Nonlinear and Complex Systems (Hong Kong), Institute of Computational and Theoretical Studies, and Life Science Imaging Centre, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhenxi Song
- School of Computer Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Zhiguo Zhang
- School of Computer Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Peng Cheng Laboratory, Shenzhen 518055, China
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13
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Haslacher D, Cavallo A, Reber P, Kattein A, Thiele M, Nasr K, Hashemi K, Sokoliuk R, Thut G, Soekadar SR. Working memory enhancement using real-time phase-tuned transcranial alternating current stimulation. Brain Stimul 2024; 17:850-859. [PMID: 39029737 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2024.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prior work has shown that transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) of parietooccipital alpha oscillations (8-14 Hz) can modulate working memory (WM) performance as a function of the phase lag to endogenous oscillations. However, leveraging this effect using real-time phase-tuned tACS has not been feasible so far due to stimulation artifacts preventing continuous phase tracking. OBJECTIVES AND HYPOTHESIS We aimed to develop a system that tracks and adapts the phase lag between tACS and ongoing parietooccipital alpha oscillations in real-time. We hypothesized that such real-time phase-tuned tACS enhances working memory performance, depending on the phase lag. METHODS We developed real-time phase-tuned closed-loop amplitude-modulated tACS (CLAM-tACS) targeting parietooccipital alpha oscillations. CLAM-tACS was applied at six different phase lags relative to ongoing alpha oscillations while participants (N = 21) performed a working memory task. To exclude that behavioral effects of CLAM-tACS were mediated by other factors such as sensory co-stimulation, a second group of participants (N = 25) received equivalent stimulation of the forehead. RESULTS WM accuracy improved in a phase lag dependent manner (p = 0.0350) in the group receiving parietooccipital stimulation, with the strongest enhancement observed at 330° phase lag between tACS and ongoing alpha oscillations (p = 0.00273, d = 0.976). Moreover, across participants, modulation of frontoparietal alpha oscillations correlated both in amplitude (p = 0.0248) and phase (p = 0.0270) with the modulation of WM accuracy. No such effects were observed in the control group receiving frontal stimulation. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate the feasibility and efficacy of real-time phase-tuned CLAM-tACS in modulating both brain activity and behavior, thereby paving the way for further investigation into brain-behavior relationships and the exploration of innovative therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Haslacher
- Clinical Neurotechnology Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Charité Campus Mitte, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alessia Cavallo
- Clinical Neurotechnology Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Charité Campus Mitte, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany; Department of Neurology and Experimental Neurology, Charité Campus Mitte, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Philipp Reber
- Clinical Neurotechnology Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Charité Campus Mitte, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany; Department of Psychology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Anna Kattein
- Clinical Neurotechnology Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Charité Campus Mitte, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Moritz Thiele
- Clinical Neurotechnology Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Charité Campus Mitte, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Khaled Nasr
- Clinical Neurotechnology Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Charité Campus Mitte, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Kimia Hashemi
- Clinical Neurotechnology Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Charité Campus Mitte, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rodika Sokoliuk
- Clinical Neurotechnology Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Charité Campus Mitte, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gregor Thut
- School of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Surjo R Soekadar
- Clinical Neurotechnology Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Charité Campus Mitte, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
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14
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De Paolis ML, Paoletti I, Zaccone C, Capone F, D'Amelio M, Krashia P. Transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) at gamma frequency: an up-and-coming tool to modify the progression of Alzheimer's Disease. Transl Neurodegener 2024; 13:33. [PMID: 38926897 PMCID: PMC11210106 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-024-00423-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The last decades have witnessed huge efforts devoted to deciphering the pathological mechanisms underlying Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and to testing new drugs, with the recent FDA approval of two anti-amyloid monoclonal antibodies for AD treatment. Beyond these drug-based experimentations, a number of pre-clinical and clinical trials are exploring the benefits of alternative treatments, such as non-invasive stimulation techniques on AD neuropathology and symptoms. Among the different non-invasive brain stimulation approaches, transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) is gaining particular attention due to its ability to externally control gamma oscillations. Here, we outline the current knowledge concerning the clinical efficacy, safety, ease-of-use and cost-effectiveness of tACS on early and advanced AD, applied specifically at 40 Hz frequency, and also summarise pre-clinical results on validated models of AD and ongoing patient-centred trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Luisa De Paolis
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico Di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21 - 00128, Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria Paoletti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico Di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21 - 00128, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Zaccone
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico Di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21 - 00128, Rome, Italy
| | - Fioravante Capone
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico Di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21 - 00128, Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200 - 00128, Rome, Italy
| | - Marcello D'Amelio
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico Di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21 - 00128, Rome, Italy.
- Department of Experimental Neurosciences, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Via del Fosso Di Fiorano, 64 - 00143, Rome, Italy.
| | - Paraskevi Krashia
- Department of Experimental Neurosciences, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Via del Fosso Di Fiorano, 64 - 00143, Rome, Italy
- Department of Sciences and Technologies for Sustainable Development and One Health, Università Campus Bio-Medico Di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21 - 00128, Rome, Italy
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15
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Liu X, Qi S, Hou L, Liu Y, Wang X. Noninvasive Deep Brain Stimulation via Temporal Interference Electric Fields Enhanced Motor Performance of Mice and Its Neuroplasticity Mechanisms. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:3314-3329. [PMID: 37987957 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03721-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
A noninvasive deep brain stimulation via temporal interference (TI) electric fields is a novel neuromodulation technology, but few advances about TI stimulation effectiveness and mechanisms have been reported. One hundred twenty-six mice were selected for the experiment by power analysis. In the present study, TI stimulation was proved to stimulate noninvasively primary motor cortex (M1) of mice, and 7-day TI stimulation with an envelope frequency of 20 Hz (∆f =20 Hz), instead of an envelope frequency of 10 Hz (∆f =10 Hz), could obviously improve mice motor performance. The mechanism of action may be related to enhancing the strength of synaptic connections, improving synaptic transmission efficiency, increasing dendritic spine density, promoting neurotransmitter release, and increasing the expression and activity of synapse-related proteins, such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), postsynaptic density protein-95 (PSD-95), and glutamate receptor protein. Furthermore, the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) signaling pathway and its upstream BDNF play an important role in the enhancement of locomotor performance in mice by TI stimulation. To our knowledge, it is the first report about TI stimulation promoting multiple motor performances and describing its mechanisms. TI stimulation might serve as a novel promising approach to enhance motor performance and treat dysfunction in deep brain regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Liu
- School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuo Qi
- School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Lijuan Hou
- College of Physical Education and Sports, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Liu
- School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China.
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16
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Latrèche C, Mancini V, Rochas V, Maeder J, Cantonas LM, Férat V, Schneider M, Michel CM, Eliez S. Using transcranial alternating current stimulation to enhance working memory skills in youths with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome: A randomized double-blind sham-controlled study. Psychiatry Res 2024; 335:115835. [PMID: 38460352 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2024.115835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
Abnormal cognitive development, particularly working memory (WM) deficits, is among the first apparent manifestations of psychosis. Yet, cognitive impairment only shows limited response to current pharmacological treatment. Alternative interventions to target cognition are highly needed in individuals at high risk for psychosis, like carriers of 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11.2DS). Here we applied theta-tuned transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) between frontal and temporal regions during a visual WM task in 34 deletion carriers. We conducted a double-blind sham-controlled study over three consecutive days. The stimulation parameters were derived from individual structural MRI scan and HD-EEG data acquired at baseline (Day 1) to model current intensity and individual preferential theta peak. Participants were randomized to either sham or tACS (Days 2 and 3) and then completed a visual WM task and a control task. Our findings reveal that tACS was safe and well-tolerated among participants. We found a significantly increased accuracy in the visual WM but not the control task following tACS. Moreover, this enhancement in WM accuracy was greater after tACS than during tACS, indicating stronger offline effects than online effects. Our study therefore supports the application of repeated sessions of brain stimulation in 22q11.2DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caren Latrèche
- Developmental Imaging and Psychopathology Lab, Department of Psychiatry, University of Geneva School of Medicine, Switzerland.
| | - Valentina Mancini
- Developmental Imaging and Psychopathology Lab, Department of Psychiatry, University of Geneva School of Medicine, Switzerland
| | - Vincent Rochas
- Functional Brain Mapping Laboratory, Department of Basic Neurosciences, University of Geneva, Switzerland; Human Neuroscience Platform, Fondation Campus Biotech Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Johanna Maeder
- Developmental Imaging and Psychopathology Lab, Department of Psychiatry, University of Geneva School of Medicine, Switzerland
| | - Lucia M Cantonas
- Autism Brain and Behavior Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, University of Geneva School of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Victor Férat
- Functional Brain Mapping Laboratory, Department of Basic Neurosciences, University of Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Maude Schneider
- Clinical Psychology Unit for Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Christoph M Michel
- Functional Brain Mapping Laboratory, Department of Basic Neurosciences, University of Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Stephan Eliez
- Developmental Imaging and Psychopathology Lab, Department of Psychiatry, University of Geneva School of Medicine, Switzerland; Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva School of Medicine, Switzerland
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17
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de la Salle S, Choueiry J, Payumo M, Devlin M, Noel C, Abozmal A, Hyde M, Baysarowich R, Duncan B, Knott V. Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation Alters Auditory Steady-State Oscillatory Rhythms and Their Cross-Frequency Couplings. Clin EEG Neurosci 2024; 55:329-339. [PMID: 37306065 PMCID: PMC11020127 DOI: 10.1177/15500594231179679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Auditory cortical plasticity deficits in schizophrenia are evidenced with electroencephalographic (EEG)-derived biomarkers, including the 40-Hz auditory steady-state response (ASSR). Aiming to understand the underlying oscillatory mechanisms contributing to the 40-Hz ASSR, we examined its response to transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) applied bilaterally to the temporal lobe of 23 healthy participants. Although not responding to gamma tACS, the 40-Hz ASSR was modulated by theta tACS (vs sham tACS), with reductions in gamma power and phase locking being accompanied by increases in theta-gamma phase-amplitude cross-frequency coupling. Results reveal that oscillatory changes induced by frequency-tuned tACS may be one approach for targeting and modulating auditory plasticity in normal and diseased brains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara de la Salle
- Clinical Neuroelectrophysiology and Cognitive Research, The Royal's Institute of Mental Health Research, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Joëlle Choueiry
- Clinical Neuroelectrophysiology and Cognitive Research, The Royal's Institute of Mental Health Research, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Mark Payumo
- School of Psychology, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Matt Devlin
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Chelsea Noel
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Ali Abozmal
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Molly Hyde
- Clinical Neuroelectrophysiology and Cognitive Research, The Royal's Institute of Mental Health Research, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Renée Baysarowich
- Clinical Neuroelectrophysiology and Cognitive Research, The Royal's Institute of Mental Health Research, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Brittany Duncan
- Clinical Neuroelectrophysiology and Cognitive Research, The Royal's Institute of Mental Health Research, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Verner Knott
- Clinical Neuroelectrophysiology and Cognitive Research, The Royal's Institute of Mental Health Research, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- School of Psychology, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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18
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Boetzel C, Stecher HI, Herrmann CS. Aligning Event-Related Potentials with Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation for Modulation-a Review. Brain Topogr 2024:10.1007/s10548-024-01055-1. [PMID: 38689065 DOI: 10.1007/s10548-024-01055-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
This review aims to demonstrate the connections between event-related potentials (ERPs), event-related oscillations (EROs), and non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS), with a specific focus on transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS). We begin with a short examination and discussion of the relation between ERPs and EROs. Then, we investigate the diverse fields of NIBS, highlighting tACS as a potent tool for modulating neural oscillations and influencing cognitive performance. Emphasizing the impact of tACS on individual ERP components, this article offers insights into the potential of conventional tACS for targeted stimulation of single ERP components. Furthermore, we review recent articles that explore a novel approach of tACS: ERP-aligned tACS. This innovative technique exploits the temporal precision of ERP components, aligning tACS with specific neural events to optimize stimulation effects and target the desired neural response. In conclusion, this review combines current knowledge to explore how ERPs, EROs, and NIBS interact, particularly highlighting the modulatory possibilities offered by tACS. The incorporation of ERP-aligned tACS introduces new opportunities for future research, advancing our understanding of the complex connection between neural oscillations and cognitive processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Boetzel
- Experimental Psychology Lab, Department of Psychology, European Medical School, Cluster for Excellence "Hearing for All", Carl Von Ossietzky University, Ammerländer Heerstr. 114 - 118, 26129, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Heiko I Stecher
- Experimental Psychology Lab, Department of Psychology, European Medical School, Cluster for Excellence "Hearing for All", Carl Von Ossietzky University, Ammerländer Heerstr. 114 - 118, 26129, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Christoph S Herrmann
- Experimental Psychology Lab, Department of Psychology, European Medical School, Cluster for Excellence "Hearing for All", Carl Von Ossietzky University, Ammerländer Heerstr. 114 - 118, 26129, Oldenburg, Germany.
- Neuroimaging Unit, European Medical School, Carl Von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany.
- Research Center Neurosensory Science, Carl Von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany.
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19
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Mendes AJ, Lema A, Carvalho S, Leite J. Tailoring transcranial alternating current stimulation based on endogenous event-related P3 to modulate premature responses: a feasibility study. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17144. [PMID: 38584936 PMCID: PMC10998630 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) is a brain stimulation method for modulating ongoing endogenous oscillatory activity at specified frequency during sensory and cognitive processes. Given the overlap between event-related potentials (ERPs) and event-related oscillations (EROs), ERPs can be studied as putative biomarkers of the effects of tACS in the brain during cognitive/sensory task performance. Objective This preliminary study aimed to test the feasibility of individually tailored tACS based on individual P3 (latency and frequency) elicited during a cued premature response task. Thus, tACS frequency was individually tailored to match target-P3 ERO for each participant. Likewise, the target onset in the task was adjusted to match the tACS phase and target-P3 latency. Methods Twelve healthy volunteers underwent tACS in two separate sessions while performing a premature response task. Target-P3 latency and ERO were calculated in a baseline block during the first session to allow a posterior synchronization between the tACS and the endogenous oscillatory activity. The cue and target-P3 amplitudes, delta/theta ERO, and power spectral density (PSD) were evaluated pre and post-tACS blocks. Results Target-P3 amplitude significantly increased after activetACS, when compared to sham. Evoked-delta during cue-P3 was decreased after tACS. No effects were found for delta ERO during target-P3 nor for the PSD and behavioral outcomes. Conclusion The present findings highlight the possible effect of phase synchronization between individualized tACS parameters and endogenous oscillatory activity, which may result in an enhancement of the underlying process (i.e., an increase of target-P3). However, an unsuccessful synchronization between tACS and EEG activity might also result in a decrease in the evoked-delta activity during cue-P3. Further studies are needed to optimize the parameters of endogenous activity and tACS synchronization. The implications of the current results for future studies, including clinical studies, are further discussed since transcranial alternating current stimulation can be individually tailored based on endogenous event-related P3 to modulate responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Augusto J. Mendes
- Geneva Memory Center, Department of Rehabilitation and Geriatrics, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Laboratory of Neuroimaging of Aging (LANVIE), University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Psychological Neuroscience Laboratory, CIPsi, School of Psychology, Universidade do Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Alberto Lema
- Psychological Neuroscience Laboratory, CIPsi, School of Psychology, Universidade do Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Sandra Carvalho
- Translational Neuropsychology Lab, Department of Education and Psychology, William James Center for Research (WJCR), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Jorge Leite
- CINTESIS@RISE, CINTESIS.UPT, Universidade Portucalense Infante D. Henrique, Porto, Portugal
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Fresnoza S, Ischebeck A. Probing Our Built-in Calculator: A Systematic Narrative Review of Noninvasive Brain Stimulation Studies on Arithmetic Operation-Related Brain Areas. eNeuro 2024; 11:ENEURO.0318-23.2024. [PMID: 38580452 PMCID: PMC10999731 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0318-23.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
This systematic review presented a comprehensive survey of studies that applied transcranial magnetic stimulation and transcranial electrical stimulation to parietal and nonparietal areas to examine the neural basis of symbolic arithmetic processing. All findings were compiled with regard to the three assumptions of the triple-code model (TCM) of number processing. Thirty-seven eligible manuscripts were identified for review (33 with healthy participants and 4 with patients). Their results are broadly consistent with the first assumption of the TCM that intraparietal sulcus both hold a magnitude code and engage in operations requiring numerical manipulations such as subtraction. However, largely heterogeneous results conflicted with the second assumption of the TCM that the left angular gyrus subserves arithmetic fact retrieval, such as the retrieval of rote-learned multiplication results. Support is also limited for the third assumption of the TCM, namely, that the posterior superior parietal lobule engages in spatial operations on the mental number line. Furthermore, results from the stimulation of brain areas outside of those postulated by the TCM show that the bilateral supramarginal gyrus is involved in online calculation and retrieval, the left temporal cortex in retrieval, and the bilateral dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and cerebellum in online calculation of cognitively demanding arithmetic problems. The overall results indicate that multiple cortical areas subserve arithmetic skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shane Fresnoza
- Department of Psychology, University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Anja Ischebeck
- Department of Psychology, University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed, 8010 Graz, Austria
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21
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Davidson B, Bhattacharya A, Sarica C, Darmani G, Raies N, Chen R, Lozano AM. Neuromodulation techniques - From non-invasive brain stimulation to deep brain stimulation. Neurotherapeutics 2024; 21:e00330. [PMID: 38340524 PMCID: PMC11103220 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurot.2024.e00330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the past 30 years, the field of neuromodulation has witnessed remarkable advancements. These developments encompass a spectrum of techniques, both non-invasive and invasive, that possess the ability to both probe and influence the central nervous system. In many cases neuromodulation therapies have been adopted into standard care treatments. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), and transcranial ultrasound stimulation (TUS) are the most common non-invasive methods in use today. Deep brain stimulation (DBS), spinal cord stimulation (SCS), and vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), are leading surgical methods for neuromodulation. Ongoing active clinical trials using are uncovering novel applications and paradigms for these interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Davidson
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Can Sarica
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ghazaleh Darmani
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nasem Raies
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Robert Chen
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Edmond J. Safra Program in Parkinson's Disease Morton and Gloria Shulman Movement Disorders Clinic, Division of Neurology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Andres M Lozano
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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22
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Di Dona G, Zamfira DA, Battista M, Battaglini L, Perani D, Ronconi L. The role of parietal beta-band activity in the resolution of visual crowding. Neuroimage 2024; 289:120550. [PMID: 38382861 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2024.120550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Visual crowding is the difficulty in identifying an object when surrounded by neighbouring flankers, representing a bottleneck for object perception. Crowding arises not only from the activity of visual areas but also from parietal areas and fronto-parietal network activity. Parietal areas would provide the dorsal-to-ventral guidance for object identification and the fronto-parietal network would modulate the attentional resolution. Several studies highlighted the relevance of beta oscillations (15-25 Hz) in these areas for visual crowding and other connatural visual phenomena. In the present study, we investigated the differential contribution of beta oscillations in the parietal cortex and fronto-parietal network in the resolution of visual crowding. During a crowding task with letter stimuli, high-definition transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation (tACS) in the beta band (18 Hz) was delivered bilaterally on parietal sites, on the right fronto-parietal network, and in a sham regime. Resting-state EEG was recorded before and after stimulation to measure tACS-induced aftereffects. The influence of crowding was reduced only when tACS was delivered bilaterally on parietal sites. In this condition, beta power was reduced after the stimulation. Furthermore, the magnitude of tACS-induced aftereffects varied as a function of individual differences in beta oscillations. Results corroborate the link between parietal beta oscillations and visual crowding, providing fundamental insights on brain rhythms underlying the dorsal-to-ventral guidance in visual perception and suggesting that beta tACS can induce plastic changes in these areas. Remarkably, these findings open new possibilities for neuromodulatory interventions for disorders characterised by abnormal crowding, such as dyslexia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Di Dona
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132 Milano MI, Italy; School of Psychology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Via Olgettina 58, 20132 Milano MI, Italy.
| | - Denisa Adina Zamfira
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132 Milano MI, Italy; School of Psychology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Via Olgettina 58, 20132 Milano MI, Italy
| | - Martina Battista
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132 Milano MI, Italy; MoMiLab Research Unit, IMT School for Advanced Studies Lucca, Piazza S. Francesco 19, 55100 Lucca LU, Italy
| | - Luca Battaglini
- Dipartimento di Psicologia Generale, University of Padova, Via Venezia 8, 35131 Padova PD, Italy
| | - Daniela Perani
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132 Milano MI, Italy; School of Psychology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Via Olgettina 58, 20132 Milano MI, Italy
| | - Luca Ronconi
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132 Milano MI, Italy; School of Psychology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Via Olgettina 58, 20132 Milano MI, Italy.
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23
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Liu Y, Luo Y, Zhang N, Zhang X, Liu S. A scientometric review of the growing trends in transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS). Front Hum Neurosci 2024; 18:1362593. [PMID: 38510513 PMCID: PMC10950919 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2024.1362593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective The aim of the current study was to provide a comprehensive picture of tACS-related research in the last decade through a bibliometric approach in order to systematically analyze the current status and cutting-edge trends in this field. Methods Articles and review articles related to tACS from 2013 to 2022 were searched on the Web of Science platform. A bibliometric analysis of authors, journals, countries, institutions, references, and keywords was performed using CiteSpace (6.2.R2), VOSviewer (1.6.19), Scimago Graphica (1.0.30), and Bibliometrix (4.2.2). Results A total of 602 papers were included. There was an overall increase in annual relevant publications in the last decade. The most contributing author was Christoph S. Herrmann. Brain Stimulation was the most prolific journal. The most prolific countries and institutions were Germany and Harvard University, respectively. Conclusion The findings reveal the development prospects and future directions of tACS and provide valuable references for researchers in the field. In recent years, the keywords "gamma," "transcranial direct current simulation," and "Alzheimer's disease" that have erupted, as well as many references cited in the outbreak, have provided certain clues for the mining of research prefaces. This will act as a guide for future researchers in determining the path of tACS research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanli Liu
- Department of Psychology, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Yulin Luo
- Department of Psychology, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Na Zhang
- Department of Information Management, Anhui Vocational College of Police Officers, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaochu Zhang
- Department of Psychology, School of Humanities & Social Science, University of Science & Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, and Department of Radiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science & Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Application Technology Center of Physical Therapy to Brain Disorders, Institute of Advanced Technology, University of Science & Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence for Information Behavior (Ministry of Education and Shanghai), School of Business and Management, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shen Liu
- Department of Psychology, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
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24
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Qi S, Liu X, Yu J, Liang Z, Liu Y, Wang X. Temporally interfering electric fields brain stimulation in primary motor cortex of mice promotes motor skill through enhancing neuroplasticity. Brain Stimul 2024; 17:245-257. [PMID: 38428583 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2024.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Temporal interference (TI) electric field brain stimulation is a novel neuromodulation technique that enables the non-invasive modulation of deep brain regions, but few advances about TI stimulation effectiveness and mechanisms have been reported. Conventional transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) can enhance motor skills, whether TI stimulation has an effect on motor skills in mice has not been elucidated. In the present study, TI stimulation was proved to stimulating noninvasively primary motor cortex (M1) of mice, and that TI stimulation with an envelope wave frequency of 20 Hz (Δ f = 20 Hz) once a day for 20 min for 7 consecutive days significantly improved the motor skills of mice. The mechanism of action may be related to regulating of neurotransmitter metabolism, increasing the expression of synapse-related proteins, promoting neurotransmitter release, increasing dendritic spine density, enhancing the number of synaptic vesicles and the thickness of postsynaptic dense material, and ultimately enhance neuronal excitability and plasticity. It is the first report about TI stimulation promoting motor skills of mice and describing its mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Qi
- Key Laboratory of Exercise and Health Sciences of Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China; School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China; School of Sport and Health, Shandong Sport University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaodong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Exercise and Health Sciences of Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China; School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinglun Yu
- Key Laboratory of Exercise and Health Sciences of Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China; School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiqiang Liang
- Key Laboratory of Exercise and Health Sciences of Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China; School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Exercise and Health Sciences of Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China; School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Exercise and Health Sciences of Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China; School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China.
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25
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Deng X, Chen X, Li Y, Zhang B, Xu W, Wang J, Zang Y, Dong Q, Chen C, Li J. Online and offline effects of parietal 10 Hz repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on working memory in healthy controls. Hum Brain Mapp 2024; 45:e26636. [PMID: 38488458 PMCID: PMC10941606 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.26636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Parietal alpha activity shows a specific pattern of phasic changes during working memory. It decreases during the encoding and recall phases but increases during the maintenance phase. This study tested whether online rTMS delivered to the parietal cortex during the maintenance phase of a working memory task would increase alpha activity and hence improve working memory. Then, 46 healthy volunteers were randomly assigned to two groups to receive 3-day parietal 10 Hz online rTMS (either real or sham, 3600 pulses in total) that were time-locked to the maintenance phase of a spatial span task (180 trials in total). Behavioral performance on another spatial span task and EEG signals during a change detection task were recorded on the day before the first rTMS (pretest) and the day after the last rTMS (posttest). We found that rTMS improved performance on both online and offline spatial span tasks. For the offline change detection task, rTMS enhanced alpha activity within the maintenance phase and improved interference control of working memory at both behavioral (K score) and neural (contralateral delay activity) levels. These results suggested that rTMS with alpha frequency time-locked to the maintenance phase is a promising way to boost working memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinping Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning & IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain ResearchBeijing Normal UniversityBeijingP.R. China
| | - Xiongying Chen
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders & the Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Beijing Anding Hospital, School of Mental HealthCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Yang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning & IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain ResearchBeijing Normal UniversityBeijingP.R. China
| | - Bofan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning & IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain ResearchBeijing Normal UniversityBeijingP.R. China
| | - Wending Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning & IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain ResearchBeijing Normal UniversityBeijingP.R. China
| | - Jue Wang
- Institute of Sports Medicine and HealthChengdu Sport UniversityChengduChina
| | - Yu‐Feng Zang
- Institute of Psychological SciencesHangzhou Normal UniversityHangzhouChina
- Center for Cognition and Brain DisordersHangzhou Normal University Affiliated HospitalHangzhouChina
| | - Qi Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning & IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain ResearchBeijing Normal UniversityBeijingP.R. China
| | - Chuansheng Chen
- Department of Psychological ScienceUniversity of CaliforniaIrvineCaliforniaUSA
| | - Jun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning & IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain ResearchBeijing Normal UniversityBeijingP.R. China
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26
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Mufti A, Gulati S, Kochhar KP, Alam I, Wadhwa S, Sikka K, Saxena R, Jain S. Novel Therapeutic Strategies of Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation and Nanomedicine in Pediatric Cerebral Palsy Patients. Neurol India 2024; 72:248-257. [PMID: 38691468 DOI: 10.4103/ni.ni_953_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Infantile central palsy (CP) is caused due to damage to the immature developing brain usually before birth, leading to altered topography and biochemical milieu. CP is a life-limiting disorder, which causes changes in sensory, motor, cognitive, and behavioral functioning. Understanding its pathophysiology is complex, and current therapeutic modalities, oral medication, surgical treatment, physical therapy, and rehabilitation provide minimal relief. As the brain is plastic, it has an inherent capacity to adapt to altered activity; thus, non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) strategies, like repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, which can modulate the neuronal activity and its function, may lead to recovery in CP patients. Further, in recent years, nanomedicine has shown a promising approach in pre-clinical studies for the treatment of central nervous system disorder because it can cross the blood-brain barrier, improve penetration, and provide sustained release of the drug. The review focuses on the principles and mechanisms of various NIBS techniques used in CP. We have also contemplated the effect of rehabilitation and nanomedicine in CP children, which will definitely lead to advancing our diagnostic as well as therapeutic abilities, in a vulnerable group of little ones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aliya Mufti
- Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, Delhi, India
| | - Sheffali Gulati
- Department of Pediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, Delhi, India
| | - Kanwal P Kochhar
- Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, Delhi, India
| | - Iqbal Alam
- Department of Physiology Hamdard Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, New Delhi, India
| | - Sanjay Wadhwa
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, Delhi, India
| | - Kapil Sikka
- Department of ENT, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, Delhi, India
| | - Rohit Saxena
- Department of Rajendra Prasad Centre, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, Delhi, India
| | - Suman Jain
- Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, Delhi, India
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27
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Shtoots L, Nadler A, Partouche R, Sharir D, Rothstein A, Shati L, Levy DA. Frontal midline theta transcranial alternating current stimulation enhances early consolidation of episodic memory. NPJ SCIENCE OF LEARNING 2024; 9:8. [PMID: 38365886 PMCID: PMC10873319 DOI: 10.1038/s41539-024-00222-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Evidence implicating theta rhythms in declarative memory encoding and retrieval, together with the notion that both retrieval and consolidation involve memory reinstatement or replay, suggests that post-learning theta rhythm modulation can promote early consolidation of newly formed memories. Building on earlier work employing theta neurofeedback, we examined whether theta-frequency transcranial alternating stimulation (tACS) can engender effective consolidation of newly formed episodic memories, compared with beta frequency stimulation or sham control conditions. We compared midline frontal and posterior parietal theta stimulation montages and examined whether benefits to memory of theta upregulation are attributable to consolidation rather than to retrieval processes by using a washout period to eliminate tACS after-effects between stimulation and memory assessment. Four groups of participants viewed object pictures followed by a free recall test during three study-test cycles. They then engaged in tACS (frontal theta montage/parietal theta montage/frontal beta montage/sham) for a period of 20 min, followed by a 2-h break. Free recall assessments were conducted after the break, 24 h later, and 7 days later. Frontal midline theta-tACS induced significant off-line retrieval gains at all assessment time points relative to all other conditions. This indicates that theta upregulation provides optimal conditions for the consolidation of episodic memory, independent of mental-state strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Limor Shtoots
- Baruch Ivcher School of Psychology, Reichman University, Herzliya, 4610101, Israel
| | - Asher Nadler
- Baruch Ivcher School of Psychology, Reichman University, Herzliya, 4610101, Israel
| | - Roni Partouche
- Baruch Ivcher School of Psychology, Reichman University, Herzliya, 4610101, Israel
| | - Dorin Sharir
- Baruch Ivcher School of Psychology, Reichman University, Herzliya, 4610101, Israel
| | - Aryeh Rothstein
- Baruch Ivcher School of Psychology, Reichman University, Herzliya, 4610101, Israel
| | - Liran Shati
- Baruch Ivcher School of Psychology, Reichman University, Herzliya, 4610101, Israel
| | - Daniel A Levy
- Baruch Ivcher School of Psychology, Reichman University, Herzliya, 4610101, Israel.
- Department of Psychology, Palo Alto University, Palo Alto, CA, 94304, USA.
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28
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Kannen K, Rasbach J, Fantazi A, Wiebe A, Selaskowski B, Asché L, Aslan B, Lux S, Herrmann CS, Philipsen A, Braun N. Alpha modulation via transcranial alternating current stimulation in adults with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Front Psychol 2024; 14:1280397. [PMID: 38282845 PMCID: PMC10812111 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1280397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Background One potential therapy treating attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is to modulate dysfunctional brain activations using brain stimulation techniques. While the number of studies investigating the effect of transcranial direct current stimulation on ADHD symptoms continues to increase, transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) is poorly examined. Previous studies reported impaired alpha brain oscillation (8-12 Hz) that may be associated with increased attention deficits in ADHD. Our aim was to enhance alpha power in adult ADHD patients via tACS, using different methods to explore potential therapeutic effects. Methods Undergoing a crossover design, adults with ADHD received active and sham stimulation on distinct days. Before and after each intervention, mean alpha power, attention performance, subjective symptom ratings, as well as head and gaze movement were examined. Results Frequency analyses revealed a significant power increase in the alpha band after both interventions. Despite a trend toward an interaction effect, this alpha power increase was, however, not significantly higher after active stimulation compared to sham stimulation. For the other measures, some additional pre-post effects were found, which were not intervention-related. Conclusion Our study cannot provide clear evidence for a tACS-induced increase in alpha power in adult ADHD patients, and thus no stimulation related improvement of attention parameters. We provide further recommendations for the future investigation of tACS as a potential ADHD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyra Kannen
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Johanna Rasbach
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Amin Fantazi
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Annika Wiebe
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Benjamin Selaskowski
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Laura Asché
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Behrem Aslan
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Silke Lux
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Christoph S. Herrmann
- Experimental Psychology Lab, Department of Psychology, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Alexandra Philipsen
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Niclas Braun
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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29
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Harquel S, Cian C, Torlay L, Cousin E, Barraud PA, Bougerol T, Guerraz M. Modulation of Visually Induced Self-motion Illusions by α Transcranial Electric Stimulation over the Superior Parietal Cortex. J Cogn Neurosci 2024; 36:143-154. [PMID: 37870524 DOI: 10.1162/jocn_a_02074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
The growing popularity of virtual reality systems has led to a renewed interest in understanding the neurophysiological correlates of the illusion of self-motion (vection), a phenomenon that can be both intentionally induced or avoided in such systems, depending on the application. Recent research has highlighted the modulation of α power oscillations over the superior parietal cortex during vection, suggesting the occurrence of inhibitory mechanisms in the sensorimotor and vestibular functional networks to resolve the inherent visuo-vestibular conflict. The present study aims to further explore this relationship and investigate whether neuromodulating these waves could causally affect the quality of vection. In a crossover design, 22 healthy volunteers received high amplitude and focused α-tACS (transcranial alternating current stimulation) over the superior parietal cortex while experiencing visually induced vection triggered by optokinetic stimulation. The tACS was tuned to each participant's individual α peak frequency, with θ-tACS and sham stimulation serving as controls. Overall, participants experienced better quality vection during α-tACS compared with control θ-tACS and sham stimulations, as quantified by the intensity of vection. The observed neuromodulation supports a causal relationship between parietal α oscillations and visually induced self-motion illusions, with their entrainment triggering overinhibition of the conflict within the sensorimotor and vestibular functional networks. These results confirm the potential of noninvasive brain stimulation for modulating visuo-vestibular conflicts, which could help to enhance the sense of presence in virtual reality environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvain Harquel
- Université Grenoble-Alpes, Université Savoie Mont Blanc, CNRS, UMR5105, LPNC, Grenoble, France
- Defitech Chair of Clinical Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics (CNP) and Brain Mind Institute (BMI), Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Campus Biotech, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Corinne Cian
- Université Grenoble-Alpes, Université Savoie Mont Blanc, CNRS, UMR5105, LPNC, Grenoble, France
- Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées, Brétigny sur Orge, France
| | - Laurent Torlay
- Université Grenoble-Alpes, Université Savoie Mont Blanc, CNRS, UMR5105, LPNC, Grenoble, France
| | - Emilie Cousin
- Université Grenoble-Alpes, Université Savoie Mont Blanc, CNRS, UMR5105, LPNC, Grenoble, France
| | - Pierre-Alain Barraud
- Université Grenoble-Alpes, CNRS, CHU Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble INP, TIMC-IMAG, Grenoble, France
| | - Thierry Bougerol
- Centre Hospitalier Université Grenoble-Alpes, Pôle Psychiatrie, Grenoble, France
- Université Grenoble-Alpes, Inserm, U1216, Grenoble Institut des Neurosciences, Grenoble, France
| | - Michel Guerraz
- Université Grenoble-Alpes, Université Savoie Mont Blanc, CNRS, UMR5105, LPNC, Grenoble, France
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30
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De Koninck BP, Brazeau D, Guay S, Herrero Babiloni A, De Beaumont L. Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation to Modulate Alpha Activity: A Systematic Review. Neuromodulation 2023; 26:1549-1584. [PMID: 36725385 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurom.2022.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) has been one of numerous investigation methods used for their potential to modulate brain oscillations; however, such investigations have given contradictory results and a lack of standardization. OBJECTIVES In this systematic review, we aimed to assess the potential of tACS to modulate alpha spectral power. The secondary outcome was the identification of tACS methodologic key parameters, adverse effects, and sensations. MATERIALS AND METHODS Studies in healthy adults who were receiving active and sham tACS intervention or any differential condition were included. The main outcome assessed was the increase/decrease of alpha spectral power through either electroencephalography or magnetoencephalography. Secondary outcomes were methodologic parameters, sensation reporting, and adverse effects. Risks of bias and the study quality were assessed with the Cochrane assessment tool. RESULTS We obtained 1429 references, and 20 met the selection criteria. A statistically significant alpha-power increase was observed in nine studies using continuous tACS stimulation and two using intermittent tACS stimulation set at a frequency within the alpha range. A statistically significant alpha-power increase was observed in three more studies using a stimulation frequency outside the alpha range. Heterogeneity among stimulation parameters was recognized. Reported adverse effects were mild. The implementation of double blind was identified as challenging using tACS, in part owing to electrical artifacts generated by stimulation on the recorded signal. CONCLUSIONS Most assessed studies reported that tACS has the potential to modulate brain alpha power. The optimization of this noninvasive brain stimulation method is of interest mostly for its potential clinical applications with neurological conditions associated with perturbations in alpha brain activity. However, more research efforts are needed to standardize optimal parameters to achieve lasting modulation effects, develop methodologic alternatives to reduce experimental bias, and improve the quality of studies using tACS to modulate brain activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice P De Koninck
- Sports and Trauma Applied Research Lab, Montreal Sacred Heart Hospital, CIUSSS North-Montreal-Island, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; University of Montreal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Daphnée Brazeau
- Sports and Trauma Applied Research Lab, Montreal Sacred Heart Hospital, CIUSSS North-Montreal-Island, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; University of Montreal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Samuel Guay
- Sports and Trauma Applied Research Lab, Montreal Sacred Heart Hospital, CIUSSS North-Montreal-Island, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; University of Montreal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Alberto Herrero Babiloni
- Sports and Trauma Applied Research Lab, Montreal Sacred Heart Hospital, CIUSSS North-Montreal-Island, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; University of Montreal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada; McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Louis De Beaumont
- Sports and Trauma Applied Research Lab, Montreal Sacred Heart Hospital, CIUSSS North-Montreal-Island, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; University of Montreal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
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Rufener KS, Zaehle T, Krauel K. Combined multi-session transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) and language skills training improves individual gamma band activity and literacy skills in developmental dyslexia. Dev Cogn Neurosci 2023; 64:101317. [PMID: 37898018 PMCID: PMC10630593 DOI: 10.1016/j.dcn.2023.101317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Developmental dyslexia is characterized by the pathologically diminished ability to acquire reading and spelling skills. Accurate processing of acoustic information at the phonemic scale is crucial for successful sound-to-letter-mapping which, in turn, is elemental in reading and spelling. Altered activation patterns in the auditory cortex are thought to provide the neurophysiological basis for the inaccurate phonemic perception. Recently, transcranial electrical stimulation has been shown to be an effective method to ameliorate cortical activation patterns in the auditory cortex. In a sample of children and adolescents with dyslexia, we investigated the effect of multi-session transcranial alternating current stimulation delivered concurrently with a phonological training and in combination with a behavioral literacy skills training. Over a 5-week period the participants received 10 training sessions while gamma-tACS was administered over bilateral auditory cortex. We found that gamma-tACS shifted the peak frequency of auditory gamma oscillations reflecting a more fine-grained processing of time-critical acoustic information. This amelioration was accompanied by increased phonemic processing skills. Moreover, individuals who received gamma-tACS showed significant improvements in their spelling skills four months after the intervention. Our results demonstrate that multi-session gamma-tACS enhances the effects of a behavioral intervention and induces long-term improvement on literacy skills in dyslexia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina S Rufener
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany; DZPG (German Center for Mental Health), partner site Halle-Jena, Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - Tino Zaehle
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Department of Medical Psychology, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany; DZPG (German Center for Mental Health), partner site Halle-Jena, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Kerstin Krauel
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany; DZPG (German Center for Mental Health), partner site Halle-Jena, Magdeburg, Germany
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Zhang R, Ren J, Zhang C. Efficacy of transcranial alternating current stimulation for schizophrenia treatment: A systematic review. J Psychiatr Res 2023; 168:52-63. [PMID: 37897837 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2023.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) is an innovative noninvasive technique in brain stimulation that involves applying a low-intensity electrical current to the scalp. And increasing evidence has revealed its potential in schizophrenia treatment. OBJECTIVE This systematic review aimed to evaluate the efficacy of tACS as a novel neurostimulation technique for improving cognitive impairment and alleviating psychotic symptoms in schizophrenia. Additionally, this review attempted to explore the impact of stimulation parameters on the effectiveness of tACS treatment. METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted across five databases, including Web of Science, Embase, PubMed, CENTRAL, and PsycINFO, to identify studies investigating the use of tACS in schizophrenia. Only studies that involved the experimental use of tACS in patients with schizophrenia were included in this review. RESULTS Nineteen studies were included in this review. The most frequently used current intensities were 2 mA and 1 mA, and the most commonly used frequencies were alpha (10 Hz), theta (4.5 Hz and 6 Hz), and gamma (40 Hz). Some studies showed that tACS may have a potential therapeutic effect by improving cognitive functions in various cognitive domains and/or ameliorating negative symptoms, hallucinations, and delusions in patients with schizophrenia, while others showed no significant change. These studies also implicated that tACS treatment is safe and well tolerated. CONCLUSIONS Overall, this systematic review suggests that tACS has promise as a novel, effective, and adjunctive treatment approach for treating schizophrenia. Future research is needed to determine the optimal parameters of tACS for treating this complex disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Zhang
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Juanjuan Ren
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Chen Zhang
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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Ladenbauer J, Khakimova L, Malinowski R, Obst D, Tönnies E, Antonenko D, Obermayer K, Hanna J, Flöel A. Towards Optimization of Oscillatory Stimulation During Sleep. Neuromodulation 2023; 26:1592-1601. [PMID: 35981956 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurom.2022.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oscillatory rhythms during sleep, such as slow oscillations (SOs) and spindles and, most importantly, their coupling, are thought to underlie processes of memory consolidation. External slow oscillatory transcranial direct current stimulation (so-tDCS) with a frequency of 0.75 Hz has been shown to improve this coupling and memory consolidation; however, effects varied quite markedly between individuals, studies, and species. In this study, we aimed to determine how precisely the frequency of stimulation must match the naturally occurring SO frequency in individuals to best improve SO-spindle coupling. Moreover, we systematically tested stimulation durations necessary to induce changes. MATERIALS AND METHODS We addressed these questions by comparing so-tDCS with individualized frequency to standardized frequency of 0.75 Hz in a within-subject design with 28 older participants during napping while stimulation train durations were systematically varied between 30 seconds, 2 minutes, and 5 minutes. RESULTS Stimulation trains as short as 30 seconds were sufficient to modulate the coupling between SOs and spindle activity. Contrary to our expectations, so-tDCS with standardized frequency indicated stronger aftereffects regarding SO-spindle coupling than individualized frequency. Angle and variance of spindle maxima occurrence during the SO cycle were similarly modulated. CONCLUSIONS In sum, short stimulation trains were sufficient to induce significant changes in sleep physiology, allowing for more trains of stimulation, which provides methodological advantages and possibly even larger behavioral effects in future studies. Regarding individualized stimulation frequency, further options of optimization need to be investigated, such as closed-loop stimulation, to calibrate stimulation frequency to the SO frequency at the time of stimulation onset. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION The Clinicaltrials.gov registration number for the study is NCT04714879.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Ladenbauer
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Liliia Khakimova
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Robert Malinowski
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Daniela Obst
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Eric Tönnies
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Daria Antonenko
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Klaus Obermayer
- Fakultät IV and Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jeff Hanna
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Agnes Flöel
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany; German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany.
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Xiao Y, Zhou J, Zhou R, Liu Y, Lü J, Huang L. Fronto-parietal theta high-definition transcranial alternating current stimulation may modulate working memory under postural control conditions in young healthy adults. Front Hum Neurosci 2023; 17:1265600. [PMID: 38021229 PMCID: PMC10666918 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2023.1265600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objects This study aimed to investigate the immediate effects of fronto-parietal θ HD-tACS on a dual task of working memory-postural control. Methods In this within-subject cross-over pilot study, we assessed the effects of 20 min of 6 Hz-tACS targeting both the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (lDLPFC) and posterior parietal cortex (PPC) in 20 healthy adults (age: 21.6 ± 1.3 years). During each session, single- and dual-task behavioral tests (working memory single-task, static tandem standing, and a dual-task of working memory-postural control) and closed-eye resting-state EEG were assessed before and immediately after stimulation. Results Within the tACS group, we found a 5.3% significant decrease in working memory response time under the dual-task following tACS (t = -3.157, p = 0.005, Cohen's d = 0.742); phase synchronization analysis revealed a significant increase in the phase locking value (PLV) of θ band between F3 and P3 after tACS (p = 0.010, Cohen's d = 0.637). Correlation analyses revealed a significant correlation between increased rs-EEG θ power in the F3 and P3 channels and faster reaction time (r = -0.515, p = 0.02; r = -0.483, p = 0.031, respectively) in the dual-task working memory task after tACS. However, no differences were observed on either upright postural control performance or rs-EEG results (p-values <0.05). Conclusion Fronto-parietal θ HD-tACS has the potential of being a neuromodulatory tool for improving working memory performance in dual-task situations, but its effect on the modulation of concurrently performed postural control tasks requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanwen Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Exercise and Health Sciences of Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shenshan Medical Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shanwei, Guangdong, China
| | - Junhong Zhou
- Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Rong Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Exercise and Health Sciences of Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Exercise and Health Sciences of Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiaojiao Lü
- Key Laboratory of Exercise and Health Sciences of Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Lingyan Huang
- Key Laboratory of Exercise and Health Sciences of Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
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Boetzel C, Stecher HI, Herrmann CS. ERP-aligned delta transcranial alternating current stimulation modulates the P3 amplitude. Int J Psychophysiol 2023; 193:112247. [PMID: 37769997 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2023.112247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
The underlying mechanisms of the event-related potential (ERP) generation are still under debate. One popular model considers the ERP as a superposition of phase-resets of ongoing endogenous oscillations of different frequencies. Brain oscillations have been shown to be modulated by transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS). Thus, it seems feasible, that an ERP could be altered by modulating the contributing oscillations using tACS. One possible approach would be to target a frequency-matched stimulation signal to a specific ERP-component. One possible target for such an approach is the P3, which appears as delta/theta oscillations in the frequency-domain. Thus, an ERP-aligned stimulation in the delta/theta-range might be suitable to force synchronization in the stimulated frequency band and thus increase the amplitude of the P3 component. Building on an existing paradigm, in the present study 21 healthy participants received individualized ERP-aligned delta tACS and control stimulation while performing a visual task. The visual stimulation was matched to the continuous tACS in order to align the tACS peak with the P3 peak. Both the P3 amplitude and the evoked delta power were significantly increased after ERP-aligned tACS but not after control stimulation. The investigated behavioral parameter showed no stimulation dependent effect. Our results may provide new insights into the debate on the contribution of phase-reset mechanisms to the generation of ERPs and offer new opportunities for clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Boetzel
- Experimental Psychology Lab, Department of Psychology, European Medical School, Cluster for Excellence "Hearing for All", Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Heiko I Stecher
- Experimental Psychology Lab, Department of Psychology, European Medical School, Cluster for Excellence "Hearing for All", Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Christoph S Herrmann
- Experimental Psychology Lab, Department of Psychology, European Medical School, Cluster for Excellence "Hearing for All", Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany; Neuroimaging Unit, European Medical School, Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany; Research Center Neurosensory Science, Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany.
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Kraft JD, Hampstead BM. A Systematic Review of tACS Effects on Cognitive Functioning in Older Adults Across the Healthy to Dementia Spectrum. Neuropsychol Rev 2023:10.1007/s11065-023-09621-3. [PMID: 37882864 PMCID: PMC11045666 DOI: 10.1007/s11065-023-09621-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) is a form of noninvasive brain stimulation that has experienced rapid growth within the aging population over the past decade due to its potential for modulating cognitive functioning across the "intact" to dementia spectrum. For this reason, we performed a systematic review of the literature to evaluate the efficacy of tACS on cognitive functioning in older adults, including those with cognitive impairment. Our review was completed in June 2023 using Psych INFO, Embase, PubMed, and Cochrane databases. Out of 479 screened articles, 21 met inclusion criteria and were organized according to clinical diagnoses. Seven out of nine studies targeted cognitively intact older adults and showed some type of cognitive improvement after stimulation, whereas nine out of twelve studies targeted clinical diagnoses and showed improved cognitive performance to varying degrees. Studies showed considerable heterogeneity in methodology, stimulation parameters, participant characteristics, choice of cognitive task, and analytic strategy, all of which reinforce the need for standardized reporting of tACS methods. Through this heterogeneity, multiple patterns are described, such as disease progression influencing tACS effects and the need for individualized tailoring. For clinical translation, it is imperative that the field (a) better understand the physiological effects of tACS in these populations, especially in respect to biomarkers, (b) document a causal relationship between tACS delivery and neurophysiological/cognitive effects, and (c) systematically establish dosing parameters (e.g., amplitude, stimulation frequency, number and duration of sessions, need for booster/maintenance sessions).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob D Kraft
- Research Program On Cognition and Neuromodulation Based Interventions, Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, 4250 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48105, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry &, Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
| | - Benjamin M Hampstead
- Research Program On Cognition and Neuromodulation Based Interventions, Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, 4250 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48105, USA
- Mental Health Service, Neuropsychology Section, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI, 48105, USA
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Pan R, Ye S, Zhong Y, Chen Q, Cai Y. Transcranial alternating current stimulation for the treatment of major depressive disorder: from basic mechanisms toward clinical applications. Front Hum Neurosci 2023; 17:1197393. [PMID: 37731669 PMCID: PMC10507344 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2023.1197393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-pharmacological treatment is essential for patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) that is medication resistant or who are unable to take medications. Transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation method that manipulates neural oscillations. In recent years, tACS has attracted substantial attention for its potential as an MDD treatment. This review summarizes the latest advances in tACS treatment for MDD and outlines future directions for promoting its clinical application. We first introduce the neurophysiological mechanism of tACS and its novel developments. In particular, two well-validated tACS techniques have high application potential: high-definition tACS targeting local brain oscillations and bifocal tACS modulating interarea functional connectivity. Accordingly, we summarize the underlying mechanisms of tACS modulation for MDD. We sort out the local oscillation abnormalities within the reward network and the interarea oscillatory synchronizations among multiple MDD-related networks in MDD patients, which provide potential modulation targets of tACS interventions. Furthermore, we review the latest clinical studies on tACS treatment for MDD, which were based on different modulation mechanisms and reported alleviations in MDD symptoms. Finally, we discuss the main challenges of current tACS treatments for MDD and outline future directions to improve intervention target selection, tACS implementation, and clinical validations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruibo Pan
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shengfeng Ye
- Department of Psychology and Behavioral Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yun Zhong
- Department of Psychology and Behavioral Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qiaozhen Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Imaging of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ying Cai
- Department of Psychology and Behavioral Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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Jones KT, Gallen CL, Ostrand AE, Rojas JC, Wais P, Rini J, Chan B, Lago AL, Boxer A, Zhao M, Gazzaley A, Zanto TP. Gamma neuromodulation improves episodic memory and its associated network in amnestic mild cognitive impairment: a pilot study. Neurobiol Aging 2023; 129:72-88. [PMID: 37276822 PMCID: PMC10583532 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2023.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) is a predementia stage of Alzheimer's disease associated with dysfunctional episodic memory and limited treatment options. We aimed to characterize feasibility, clinical, and biomarker effects of noninvasive neurostimulation for aMCI. 13 individuals with aMCI received eight 60-minute sessions of 40-Hz (gamma) transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) targeting regions related to episodic memory processing. Feasibility, episodic memory, and plasma Alzheimer's disease biomarkers were assessed. Neuroplastic changes were characterized by resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC) and neuronal excitatory/inhibitory balance. Gamma tACS was feasible and aMCI participants demonstrated improvement in multiple metrics of episodic memory, but no changes in biomarkers. Improvements in episodic memory were most pronounced in participants who had the highest modeled tACS-induced electric fields and exhibited the greatest changes in RSFC. Increased RSFC was also associated with greater hippocampal excitability and higher baseline white matter integrity. This study highlights initial feasibility and the potential of gamma tACS to rescue episodic memory in an aMCI population by modulating connectivity and excitability within an episodic memory network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin T Jones
- Department of Neurology, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Neuroscape, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA.
| | - Courtney L Gallen
- Department of Neurology, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Neuroscape, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Avery E Ostrand
- Department of Neurology, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Neuroscape, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Julio C Rojas
- Department of Neurology, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Memory and Aging Center, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Peter Wais
- Department of Neurology, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Neuroscape, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - James Rini
- Department of Neurology, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Neuroscape, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Brandon Chan
- Department of Neurology, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Memory and Aging Center, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Argentina Lario Lago
- Department of Neurology, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Memory and Aging Center, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Adam Boxer
- Department of Neurology, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Memory and Aging Center, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Min Zhao
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Vision Science and Dermatology, Institute for Regenerative Cures, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA
| | - Adam Gazzaley
- Department of Neurology, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Neuroscape, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Departments of Physiology and Psychiatry, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Theodore P Zanto
- Department of Neurology, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Neuroscape, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA.
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Potok W, van der Groen O, Sivachelvam S, Bächinger M, Fröhlich F, Kish LB, Wenderoth N. Contrast detection is enhanced by deterministic, high-frequency transcranial alternating current stimulation with triangle and sine waveform. J Neurophysiol 2023; 130:458-473. [PMID: 37465880 PMCID: PMC10625838 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00465.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Stochastic resonance (SR) describes a phenomenon where an additive noise (stochastic carrier-wave) enhances the signal transmission in a nonlinear system. In the nervous system, nonlinear properties are present from the level of single ion channels all the way to perception and appear to support the emergence of SR. For example, SR has been repeatedly demonstrated for visual detection tasks, also by adding noise directly to cortical areas via transcranial random noise stimulation (tRNS). When dealing with nonlinear physical systems, it has been suggested that resonance can be induced not only by adding stochastic signals (i.e., noise) but also by adding a large class of signals that are not stochastic in nature that cause "deterministic amplitude resonance" (DAR). Here, we mathematically show that high-frequency, deterministic, periodic signals can yield resonance-like effects with linear transfer and infinite signal-to-noise ratio at the output. We tested this prediction empirically and investigated whether nonrandom, high-frequency, transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) applied to the visual cortex could induce resonance-like effects and enhance the performance of a visual detection task. We demonstrated in 28 participants that applying 80-Hz triangular-waves or sine-waves with tACS reduced the visual contrast detection threshold for optimal brain stimulation intensities. The influence of tACS on contrast sensitivity was equally effective to tRNS-induced modulation, demonstrating that both tACS and tRNS can reduce contrast detection thresholds. Our findings suggest that a resonance-like mechanism can also emerge when deterministic electrical waveforms are applied via tACS.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Our findings extend our understanding of neuromodulation induced by noninvasive electrical stimulation. We provide the first evidence showing acute online benefits of transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS)triangle and tACSsine targeting the primary visual cortex (V1) on visual contrast detection in accordance with the resonance-like phenomenon. The "deterministic" tACS and "stochastic" high-frequency-transcranial random noise stimulation (tRNS) are equally effective in enhancing visual contrast detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weronika Potok
- Neural Control of Movement Lab, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich (ZNZ), Federal Institute of Technology Zurich, University and Balgrist Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Onno van der Groen
- Neurorehabilitation and Robotics Laboratory, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Sahana Sivachelvam
- Neural Control of Movement Lab, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marc Bächinger
- Neural Control of Movement Lab, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich (ZNZ), Federal Institute of Technology Zurich, University and Balgrist Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Flavio Fröhlich
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States
- Carolina Center for Neurostimulation, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States
- Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States
- Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States
| | - Laszlo B Kish
- Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States
| | - Nicole Wenderoth
- Neural Control of Movement Lab, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich (ZNZ), Federal Institute of Technology Zurich, University and Balgrist Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Future Health Technologies, Singapore-ETH Centre, Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore
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Ibáñez J, Zicher B, Brown KE, Rocchi L, Casolo A, Del Vecchio A, Spampinato D, Vollette CA, Rothwell JC, Baker SN, Farina D. Standard intensities of transcranial alternating current stimulation over the motor cortex do not entrain corticospinal inputs to motor neurons. J Physiol 2023; 601:3187-3199. [PMID: 35776944 DOI: 10.1113/jp282983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcranial alternating current stimulation (TACS) is commonly used to synchronize a cortical area and its outputs to the stimulus waveform, but gathering evidence for this based on brain recordings in humans is challenging. The corticospinal tract transmits beta oscillations (∼21 Hz) from the motor cortex to tonically contracted limb muscles linearly. Therefore, muscle activity may be used to measure the level of beta entrainment in the corticospinal tract due to TACS over the motor cortex. Here, we assessed whether TACS is able to modulate the neural inputs to muscles, which would provide indirect evidence for TACS-driven neural entrainment. In the first part of the study, we ran simulations of motor neuron (MN) pools receiving inputs from corticospinal neurons with different levels of beta entrainment. Results suggest that MNs are highly sensitive to changes in corticospinal beta activity. Then, we ran experiments on healthy human subjects (N = 10) in which TACS (at 1 mA) was delivered over the motor cortex at 21 Hz (beta stimulation), or at 7 Hz or 40 Hz (control conditions) while the abductor digiti minimi or the tibialis anterior muscle were tonically contracted. Muscle activity was measured using high-density electromyography, which allowed us to decompose the activity of pools of motor units innervating the muscles. By analysing motor unit pool activity, we observed that none of the TACS conditions could consistently alter the spectral contents of the common neural inputs received by the muscles. These results suggest that 1 mA TACS over the motor cortex given at beta frequencies does not entrain corticospinal activity. KEY POINTS: Transcranial alternating current stimulation (TACS) is commonly used to entrain the communication between brain regions. It is challenging to find direct evidence supporting TACS-driven neural entrainment due to the technical difficulties in recording brain activity during stimulation. Computational simulations of motor neuron pools receiving common inputs in the beta (∼21 Hz) band indicate that motor neurons are highly sensitive to corticospinal beta entrainment. Motor unit activity from human muscles does not support TACS-driven corticospinal entrainment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Ibáñez
- BSICoS group, I3A Institute, University of Zaragoza, IIS Aragón, Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College, London, UK
- Department for Clinical and movement neurosciences, Institute of Neurology, University College London, UK
| | - Blanka Zicher
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Katlyn E Brown
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lorenzo Rocchi
- Department for Clinical and movement neurosciences, Institute of Neurology, University College London, UK
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Andrea Casolo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Alessandro Del Vecchio
- Department of Artificial Intelligence in Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, 17 Friedrich-Alexander University, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Danny Spampinato
- Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation Unit, Department of Behavioral and Clinical Neurology, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Stuart N Baker
- Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Dario Farina
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College, London, UK
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Radecke JO, Fiene M, Misselhorn J, Herrmann CS, Engel AK, Wolters CH, Schneider TR. Personalized alpha-tACS targeting left posterior parietal cortex modulates visuo-spatial attention and posterior evoked EEG activity. Brain Stimul 2023; 16:1047-1061. [PMID: 37353071 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2023.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Covert visuo-spatial attention is marked by the anticipatory lateralization of neuronal alpha activity in the posterior parietal cortex. Previous applications of transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) at the alpha frequency, however, were inconclusive regarding the causal contribution of oscillatory activity during visuo-spatial attention. OBJECTIVE Attentional shifts of behavior and electroencephalography (EEG) after-effects were assessed in a cued visuo-spatial attention paradigm. We hypothesized that parietal alpha-tACS shifts attention relative to the ipsilateral visual hemifield. Furthermore, we assumed that modulations of behavior and neurophysiology are related to individual electric field simulations. METHODS We applied personalized tACS at alpha and gamma frequencies to elucidate the role of oscillatory neuronal activity for visuo-spatial attention. Personalized tACS montages were algorithmically optimized to target individual left and right parietal regions that were defined by an EEG localizer. RESULTS Behavioral performance in the left hemifield was specifically increased by alpha-tACS compared to gamma-tACS targeting the left parietal cortex. This hemisphere-specific effect was observed despite the symmetry of simulated electric fields. In addition, visual event-related potential (ERP) amplitudes showed a reduced lateralization over posterior sites induced by left alpha-tACS. Neuronal sources of this effect were localized in the left premotor cortex. Interestingly, accuracy modulations induced by left parietal alpha-tACS were directly related to electric field magnitudes in the left premotor cortex. CONCLUSION Overall, results corroborate the notion that alpha lateralization plays a causal role in covert visuo-spatial attention and indicate an increased susceptibility of parietal and premotor brain regions of the left dorsal attention network to subtle tACS-neuromodulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan-Ole Radecke
- Department of Neurophysiology and Pathophysiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Marina Fiene
- Department of Neurophysiology and Pathophysiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jonas Misselhorn
- Department of Neurophysiology and Pathophysiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christoph S Herrmann
- Experimental Psychology Lab, Department of Psychology, University of Oldenburg, 26111, Oldenburg, Germany; Research Center Neurosensory Science, University of Oldenburg, 26111, Oldenburg, Germany; Cluster of Excellence "Hearing4all", Germany
| | - Andreas K Engel
- Department of Neurophysiology and Pathophysiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Carsten H Wolters
- Institute for Biomagnetism and Biosignalanalysis, University of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany; Otto Creutzfeldt Center for Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Till R Schneider
- Department of Neurophysiology and Pathophysiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
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Iszak K, Gronemann SM, Meyer S, Hunold A, Zschüntzsch J, Bähr M, Paulus W, Antal A. Why Temporal Inference Stimulation May Fail in the Human Brain: A Pilot Research Study. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1813. [PMID: 37509455 PMCID: PMC10376875 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11071813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Temporal interference stimulation (TIS) aims at targeting deep brain areas during transcranial electrical alternating current stimulation (tACS) by generating interference fields at depth. Although its modulatory effects have been demonstrated in animal and human models and stimulation studies, direct experimental evidence is lacking for its utility in humans (in vivo). Herein, we directly test and compare three different structures: firstly, we perform peripheral nerve and muscle stimulation quantifying muscle twitches as readout, secondly, we stimulate peri-orbitally with phosphene perception as a surrogate marker, and thirdly, we attempt to modulate the mean power of alpha oscillations in the occipital area as measured with electroencephalography (EEG). We found strong evidence for stimulation efficacy on the modulated frequency in the PNS, but we found no evidence for its utility in the CNS. Possible reasons for failing to activate CNS targets could be comparatively higher activation thresholds here or inhibitory stimulation components to the carrier frequency interfering with the effects of the modulated signal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krisztián Iszak
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Georg-August University, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Simon Mathies Gronemann
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Georg-August University, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Stefanie Meyer
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Georg-August University, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Alexander Hunold
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Informatics, Ilmenau University of Technology, 98684 Ilmenau, Germany
| | - Jana Zschüntzsch
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Georg-August University, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Mathias Bähr
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Georg-August University, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Walter Paulus
- Department of Neurology, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Klinikum Großhadern, 81377 München, Germany
| | - Andrea Antal
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Georg-August University, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
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Arulchelvan E, Vanneste S. Promising neurostimulation routes for targeting the hippocampus to improve episodic memory: A review. Brain Res 2023:148457. [PMID: 37315722 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2023.148457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This review aims to highlight modern neurostimulation approaches that are effectively activating the hippocampus and enhancing episodic memory performance. The hippocampus is a brain region known to play an essential role in episodic memory processes. However, as it is nestled deep within the brain, it has been a challenging target for traditional neurostimulation approaches, with studies reporting inconsistent memory effects. Recent studies suggest more than half of the electrical current from non-invasive transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) methods may be attenuated by the human scalp, skull, and cerebral spinal fluid. Thus, this review aims to highlight novel neurostimulation approaches that are showing promise as alternative routes for activating hippocampal circuitry. Early evidence suggests temporal interference, closed-loop and individualized protocols, sensory stimulation and peripheral nerve-targeted tES protocols warrant further investigation. These approaches each provide promising routes for activating the hippocampus by a) increasing its functional connectiveness to key brain regions, b) strengthening synaptic plasticity mechanisms, or c) enhancing neural entrainment specifically within and between theta and gamma frequencies in these regions. Importantly, these three functional mechanisms and the hippocampus' structural integrity are negatively impacted throughout the progression of Alzheimer's Disease, with episodic memory deficits likewise evident in early stages. Consequently, depending on further validation of the approaches reviewed here, these techniques could offer significant applied therapeutic value for patients suffering from memory deficits or neurodegenerative diseases including amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment or Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elva Arulchelvan
- Lab for Clinical and Integrative Neuroscience, Trinity Institute for Neuroscience, School of Psychology, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sven Vanneste
- Global Brain Health Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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44
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Lyzhko E, Peter SE, Nees F, Siniatchkin M, Moliadze V. Offline 20 Hz transcranial alternating current stimulation over the right inferior frontal gyrus increases theta activity during a motor response inhibition task. Neurophysiol Clin 2023; 53:102887. [PMID: 37355398 DOI: 10.1016/j.neucli.2023.102887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Previous studies have shown that the right inferior frontal gyrus (rIFG) and the pre-supplementary motor area (preSMA) play an important role in motor inhibitory control. The aim of the study was to use theta frequency transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) to modulate brain activity in the rIFG and preSMA and to test the effects of stimulation using a motor response inhibition task. METHODS In four sessions, 20 healthy participants received tACS at 6 Hz over preSMA or rIFG, or 20 Hz over rIFG (to test frequency specificity), or sham stimulation before task processing. After each type of stimulation, the participants performed the Go/NoGo task with simultaneous electroencephalogram (EEG) recording. RESULTS By stimulating rIFG and preSMA with 6 Hz tACS, we were not able to modulate either behavioral performance nor the EEG correlate. Interestingly, 20 Hz tACS over the rIFG significantly increased theta activity, however without behavioral effects. This increased theta activity did not coincide with the stimulation area and was localized in the fronto-central and centro-parietal areas. CONCLUSIONS The inclusion of a control frequency is crucial to test for frequency specificity. Our findings are in accordance with previous studies showing that after effects of tACS are not restricted to the stimulation frequency but can also occur in other frequency bands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina Lyzhko
- Institute of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Schleswig Holstein, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany; Department of Neuropediatrics, University Medical Center Schleswig Holstein, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Stefanie E Peter
- Institute of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Schleswig Holstein, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Frauke Nees
- Institute of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Schleswig Holstein, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Michael Siniatchkin
- Institute of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Schleswig Holstein, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany; University Clinic of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital OWL, University of Bielefeld, Campus Bethel, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Vera Moliadze
- Institute of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Schleswig Holstein, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany.
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45
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Peng W, Zhan Y, Jin R, Lou W, Li X. Aftereffects of alpha transcranial alternating current stimulation over the primary sensorimotor cortex on cortical processing of pain. Pain 2023; 164:1280-1290. [PMID: 36607274 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) is believed to modulate brain oscillations in a frequency-specific manner. Given the correlation between sensorimotor α-oscillations and pain perception, tACS that targets sensorimotor α-oscillations has the potential to reduce pain. Therefore, this study sought to determine the aftereffects of α-tACS over unilateral primary sensorimotor cortex (SM1) on the perceptual and neural responses to noxious painful stimulation of the contralateral hand. Using a double-blinded and sham-controlled design, 60 healthy participants were recruited to receive either α-tACS or sham stimulation of unilateral SM1 through an electrode montage in a 4 × 1 ring configuration. Neural responses to laser nociceptive stimuli were assessed using functional magnetic resonance imaging immediately before and after α-tACS intervention. Perceptual reports were recorded simultaneously. Compared with sham stimulation, α-tACS attenuated bilateral SM1 responses to painful stimuli delivered to the contralateral hand. Although α-tACS did not exert direct effect on subjective pain perception, it can indirectly decrease ratings of pain perception by reducing brain activity within the targeted SM1. Moreover, α-tACS decreased the functional connectivity between the targeted SM1 and a network of regions that are crucially involved in pain processing, including the middle cingulate cortex, contralateral somatosensory cortex, and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. These results demonstrated that after α-tACS applied over the unilateral SM1 does attenuate subsequent neural processing of pain within bilateral sensorimotor regions as well as sensorimotor functional connectivity. The findings provide evidence that sensorimotor α-oscillations directly affect pain processing and support the application of sensorimotor α-tACS for inducing pain analgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Peng
- School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Yilin Zhan
- School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Richu Jin
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Wutao Lou
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiaoyun Li
- School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
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Haslacher D, Narang A, Sokoliuk R, Cavallo A, Reber P, Nasr K, Santarnecchi E, Soekadar SR. In vivo phase-dependent enhancement and suppression of human brain oscillations by transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS). Neuroimage 2023:120187. [PMID: 37230205 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2023.120187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) can influence perception and behavior, with recent evidence also highlighting its potential impact in clinical settings, but its underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. Behavioral and indirect physiological evidence indicates that phase-dependent constructive and destructive interference between the applied electric field and brain oscillations at the stimulation frequency may play an important role, but in vivo validation during stimulation was unfeasible because stimulation artifacts impede single-trial assessment of brain oscillations during tACS. Here, we attenuated stimulation artifacts to provide evidence for phase-dependent enhancement and suppression of visually evoked steady state responses (SSR) during amplitude-modulated tACS (AM-tACS). We found that AM-tACS enhanced and suppressed SSR by 5.77 ± 2.95 %, while it enhanced and suppressed corresponding visual perception by 7.99 ± 5.15 %. While not designed to investigate the underlying mechanisms of this effect, our study suggests feasibility and superiority of phase-locked (closed-loop) AM-tACS over conventional (open-loop) AM-tACS to purposefully enhance or suppress brain oscillations at specific frequencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Haslacher
- Clinical Neurotechnology Lab, Neuroscience Research Center (NWFZ), Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Asmita Narang
- Clinical Neurotechnology Lab, Neuroscience Research Center (NWFZ), Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Rodika Sokoliuk
- Clinical Neurotechnology Lab, Neuroscience Research Center (NWFZ), Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Alessia Cavallo
- Clinical Neurotechnology Lab, Neuroscience Research Center (NWFZ), Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Philipp Reber
- Clinical Neurotechnology Lab, Neuroscience Research Center (NWFZ), Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Khaled Nasr
- Clinical Neurotechnology Lab, Neuroscience Research Center (NWFZ), Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Emiliano Santarnecchi
- Precision Neuroscience and Neuromodulation Program & Network Control Laboratory, Gordon Center for Medical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital & Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Surjo R Soekadar
- Clinical Neurotechnology Lab, Neuroscience Research Center (NWFZ), Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany..
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47
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Draganov M, Galiano-Landeira J, Doruk Camsari D, Ramírez JE, Robles M, Chanes L. Noninvasive modulation of predictive coding in humans: causal evidence for frequency-specific temporal dynamics. Cereb Cortex 2023:7156779. [PMID: 37154618 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhad127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence indicates that the brain predicts sensory input based on past experiences, importantly constraining how we experience the world. Despite a growing interest on this framework, known as predictive coding, most of such approaches to multiple psychological domains continue to be theoretical or primarily provide correlational evidence. We here explored the neural basis of predictive processing using noninvasive brain stimulation and provide causal evidence of frequency-specific modulations in humans. Participants received 20 Hz (associated with top-down/predictions), 50 Hz (associated with bottom-up/prediction errors), or sham transcranial alternating current stimulation on the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex while performing a social perception task in which facial expression predictions were induced and subsequently confirmed or violated. Left prefrontal 20 Hz stimulation reinforced stereotypical predictions. In contrast, 50 Hz and sham stimulation failed to yield any significant behavioral effects. Moreover, the frequency-specific effect observed was further supported by electroencephalography data, which showed a boost of brain activity at the stimulated frequency band. These observations provide causal evidence for how predictive processing may be enabled in the human brain, setting up a needed framework to understand how it may be disrupted across brain-related conditions and potentially restored through noninvasive methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Metodi Draganov
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona 08193, Spain
| | - Jordi Galiano-Landeira
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona 08193, Spain
| | - Deniz Doruk Camsari
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Jairo-Enrique Ramírez
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona 08193, Spain
| | - Marta Robles
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona 08193, Spain
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Faculty, LMU Munich, Munich 80336, Germany
| | - Lorena Chanes
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona 08193, Spain
- Institut de Neurociències, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona 08193, Spain
- Serra Húnter Programme, Generalitat de Catalunya, Barcelona 08002, Spain
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Gallina J, Marsicano G, Romei V, Bertini C. Electrophysiological and Behavioral Effects of Alpha-Band Sensory Entrainment: Neural Mechanisms and Clinical Applications. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11051399. [PMID: 37239069 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11051399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Alpha-band (7-13 Hz) activity has been linked to visuo-attentional performance in healthy participants and to impaired functionality of the visual system in a variety of clinical populations including patients with acquired posterior brain lesion and neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. Crucially, several studies suggested that short uni- and multi-sensory rhythmic stimulation (i.e., visual, auditory and audio-visual) administered in the alpha-band effectively induces transient changes in alpha oscillatory activity and improvements in visuo-attentional performance by synchronizing the intrinsic brain oscillations to the external stimulation (neural entrainment). The present review aims to address the current state of the art on the alpha-band sensory entrainment, outlining its potential functional effects and current limitations. Indeed, the results of the alpha-band entrainment studies are currently mixed, possibly due to the different stimulation modalities, task features and behavioral and physiological measures employed in the various paradigms. Furthermore, it is still unknown whether prolonged alpha-band sensory entrainment might lead to long-lasting effects at a neural and behavioral level. Overall, despite the limitations emerging from the current literature, alpha-band sensory entrainment may represent a promising and valuable tool, inducing functionally relevant changes in oscillatory activity, with potential rehabilitative applications in individuals characterized by impaired alpha activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Gallina
- Centre for Studies and Research in Cognitive Neuroscience, University of Bologna, Via Rasi e Spinelli 176, 47521 Cesena, Italy
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Viale Berti Pichat 5, 40121 Bologna, Italy
| | - Gianluca Marsicano
- Centre for Studies and Research in Cognitive Neuroscience, University of Bologna, Via Rasi e Spinelli 176, 47521 Cesena, Italy
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Viale Berti Pichat 5, 40121 Bologna, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Romei
- Centre for Studies and Research in Cognitive Neuroscience, University of Bologna, Via Rasi e Spinelli 176, 47521 Cesena, Italy
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Viale Berti Pichat 5, 40121 Bologna, Italy
| | - Caterina Bertini
- Centre for Studies and Research in Cognitive Neuroscience, University of Bologna, Via Rasi e Spinelli 176, 47521 Cesena, Italy
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Viale Berti Pichat 5, 40121 Bologna, Italy
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49
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Davis MC, Fitzgerald PB, Bailey NW, Sullivan C, Stout JC, Hill AT, Hoy KE. Effects of medial prefrontal transcranial alternating current stimulation on neural activity and connectivity in people with Huntington's disease and neurotypical controls. Brain Res 2023; 1811:148379. [PMID: 37121424 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2023.148379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the effects of transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) targeted to the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) on resting electroencephalographic (EEG) indices of oscillatory power, aperiodic exponent and offset, and functional connectivity in 22 late premanifest and early manifest stage individuals with HD and 20 neurotypical controls. Participants underwent three 20-minute sessions of tACS at least 72 hours apart; one session at alpha frequency (either each participant's Individualised Alpha Frequency (IAF), or 10Hz when an IAF was not detected); one session at delta frequency (2Hz); and a session of sham tACS. Session order was randomised and counterbalanced across participants. EEG recordings revealed a reduction of the spectral exponent ('flattening' of the 1/f slope) of the eyes-open aperiodic signal in participants with HD following alpha-tACS, suggestive of an enhancement in excitatory tone. Contrary to expectation, there were no changes in oscillatory power or functional connectivity in response to any of the tACS conditions in the participants with HD. By contrast, alpha-tACS increased delta power in neurotypical controls, who further demonstrated significant increases in theta power and theta functional connectivity in response to delta-tACS. This study contributes to the rapidly growing literature on the potential experimental and therapeutic applications of tACS by examining neurophysiological outcome measures in people with HD as well as neurotypical controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Claire Davis
- Central Clinical School, Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; Statewide Progressive Neurological Disease Service, Calvary Health Care Bethlehem, Victoria Australia.
| | - Paul B Fitzgerald
- School of Medicine and Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Neil W Bailey
- Central Clinical School, Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; School of Medicine and Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia; Monarch Research Institute Monarch Mental Health Group, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Caley Sullivan
- Central Clinical School, Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Julie C Stout
- School of Psychological Sciences, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Aron T Hill
- Central Clinical School, Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Kate E Hoy
- Central Clinical School, Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; The Bionics Institute of Australia, 384-388 Albert St, East Melbourne, VIC, 3002, Australia
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Davis MC, Hill AT, Fitzgerald PB, Bailey NW, Sullivan C, Stout JC, Hoy KE. Medial prefrontal transcranial alternating current stimulation for apathy in Huntington's disease. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2023; 126:110776. [PMID: 37120005 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2023.110776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the effects of transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) targeted to the bilateral medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and administered at either delta or alpha frequencies, on brain activity and apathy in people with Huntington's disease (HD) (n = 17). Given the novelty of the protocol, neurotypical controls (n = 20) were also recruited. All participants underwent three 20-min sessions of tACS; one session at alpha frequency (Individualised Alpha Frequency (IAF), or 10 Hz when an IAF was not detected); one session at delta frequency (2 Hz); and a session of sham tACS. Participants completed the Monetary Incentive Delay (MID) task with simultaneous recording of EEG immediately before and after each tACS condition. The MID task presents participants with cues signalling potential monetary gains or losses that increase activity in key regions of the cortico-basal ganglia-thalamocortical networks, with dysfunction of the latter network being implicated in the pathophysiology of apathy. We used the P300 and Contingent Negative Variation (CNV) event-related potentials elicited during the MID task as markers of mPFC engagement. HD participants' CNV amplitude significantly increased in response to alpha-tACS, but not delta-tACS or sham. Neurotypical controls' P300 and CNV were not modulated by any of the tACS conditions, but they did demonstrate a significant decrease in post-target response times following alpha-tACS. We present this as preliminary evidence of the ability of alpha-tACS to modulate brain activity associated with apathy in HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Claire Davis
- Central Clinical School, Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; Statewide Progressive Neurological Disease Service, Calvary Health Care Bethlehem, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Aron T Hill
- Central Clinical School, Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Paul B Fitzgerald
- Central Clinical School, Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; School of Medicine and Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Neil W Bailey
- Central Clinical School, Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; School of Medicine and Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia; Monarch Research Institute Monarch Mental Health Group, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Caley Sullivan
- Central Clinical School, Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Julie C Stout
- School of Psychological Sciences, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kate E Hoy
- Central Clinical School, Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; The Bionics Institute of Australia, 384-388 Albert St, East Melbourne, VIC 3002, Australia
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