Rhythmic TMS and Brain Oscillations
Author Information
Author(s): Gregor Thut, Domenica Veniero, Vincenzo Romei, Carlo Miniussi, Philippe Schyns, Joachim Gross
Primary Institution: Centre for Cognitive Neuroimaging, Institute of Neuroscience and Psychology, University of Glasgow
Hypothesis
Does rhythmic transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) cause entrainment of brain oscillations?
Conclusion
Rhythmic TMS can cause local entrainment of natural brain oscillations, which may influence cognitive tasks.
Supporting Evidence
- TMS bursts at the preferred α-frequency induced α-oscillations.
- There was a progressive enhancement of α-activity during TMS.
- The entrainment depended on the pre-TMS phase of the background α-rhythm.
- Control conditions confirmed the specificity of the α-boosting effect.
Takeaway
Using a special technique called TMS, scientists found that they can make brain waves sync up with the rhythm of the stimulation, which helps with thinking and perception.
Methodology
The study used rhythmic TMS bursts on a parietal α-oscillator while recording EEG to assess brain activity.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the small number of participants and the exclusion of some data.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and excluded participants with excessive artifacts.
Participant Demographics
Eight healthy adult volunteers, predominantly right-handed, with a mean age of 27.1 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.009
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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