Brain-state determines learning improvements after transcranial alternating-current stimulation to frontal cortex
Files
Accepted manuscript
Date
2018-02-17
Authors
Nguyen, John
Deng, Yuqi
Reinhart, Robert M.G.
Version
Accepted manuscript
OA Version
Citation
J. Nguyen, Y. Deng, R. Reinhart. 2018. "Brain-state determines learning improvements after transcranial alternating-current stimulation to frontal cortex." Brain Stimulation, Volume 11, Issue 4, pp. 723 - 726. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brs.2018.02.008
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Theories of executive control propose that communication between medial frontal cortex (MFC) and lateral prefrontal cortex (lPFC) is critical for learning. 6-Hz phase synchronization may be the mechanism by which neural activity between MFC and lPFC is coordinated into a functional network. Recent evidence suggests that switching from eyes closed to open may induce a change in brain-state reflected by enhanced executive control and related functional connectivity.
OBJECTIVE/HYPOTHESIs
To examine whether causal manipulation of MFC and lPFC can improve learning according to the brain-state induced by switching from eyes closed to open.
METHODS
Within-subjects, sham-controlled, double-blind study of 30 healthy subjects, each receiving 6-Hz in-phase high definition transcranial alternating-current stimulation (HD-tACS) applied to MFC and right lPFC prior to performing a time estimation task.
RESULTS
HD-tACS with eyes open improved learning ability relative to sham, whereas HD-tACS with eyes closed had no significant effect on behavior.
CONCLUSION
Results suggest a phase-sensitive mechanism in frontal cortex mediates components of learning performance in a state-dependent manner.
Description
Published in final edited form as:
Brain Stimul. 2018 ; 11(4): 723–726. doi:10.1016/j.brs.2018.02.008