Effects of transcranial direct current stimulation on modulating executive functions in healthy populations: a systematic review and meta-analysis
2024

Effects of tDCS on Executive Functions in Healthy People

Sample size: 1228 publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): You Guopeng, Pan Xinliang, Li Jun, Zhao Shaocong

Primary Institution: Xiamen University of Technology, Xiamen, China

Hypothesis

This study aimed to investigate the effects of a-tDCS and c-tDCS applied over the PFC for healthy populations on reactive and proactive control processes compared with sham or no tDCS conditions.

Conclusion

This review confirmed the engagement of PFC tDCS in reactive and proactive inhibitory processes.

Supporting Evidence

  • A-tDCS and c-tDCS over the PFC had significant ergogenic effects on SST performance.
  • A-tDCS had a positive effect on GNG task performance.
  • The meta-analysis revealed that the application of a-tDCS over the right IFC can significantly improve proactive inhibition.

Takeaway

This study looked at how brain stimulation can help people control their actions better. It found that certain types of stimulation can make it easier to stop yourself from doing things you shouldn't.

Methodology

This systematic review was performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines, including studies that assessed inhibitory control in SST or/and GNG tasks.

Potential Biases

The study did not make a detailed comparative discussion and analysis of stimulation parameters and potential moderators.

Limitations

The participants included in the studies were all healthy populations, and the meta-analysis did not perform subgroup analysis in specific regions of PFC.

Participant Demographics

The study included 484 males and 620 females, with ages ranging from 18 to 35 years.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.0001

Confidence Interval

95% CI [−24.62, −9.43]

Statistical Significance

p<0.0001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3389/fnhum.2024.1485037

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