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Transcranial Electrical Stimulation: What We Know and Do Not Know About Mechanisms
Anna Fertonani1, Carlo Miniussi1,2
11 Cognitive Neuroscience Section, IRCCS Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy.
Summary
This review synthesizes theoretical models for transcranial electrical stimulation (tES), explaining its behavioral effects. Stochastic resonance is proposed as a key mechanism for neuromodulation, guiding future research in this complex technique.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Computational Neuroscience
- Neuromodulation
Background:
- Transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) has advanced significantly in understanding and application.
- Theoretical models explaining tES effects lag behind experimental progress.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an updated overview of theoretical tES models.
- To establish a unified framework for understanding tES mechanisms.
- To guide future research directions in tES.
Main Methods:
- Review and synthesis of existing theoretical models of tES.
- Contextualization of models within a unified framework.
- Analysis of tES effects on a continuum from stimulation-dependent to network-dependent.
Main Results:
- tES models can explain behavioral effects across a stimulation-dependent to network-dependent continuum.
- Stochastic resonance is proposed as a mechanism for online neuromodulation.
- Identified key aspects for future research in tES.
Conclusions:
- tES requires rigorous protocols and deep knowledge for effective application.
- Theoretical models provide a framework for understanding tES neuromodulation.
- Future research should focus on refining models and application protocols.
