Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Improves Executive Dysfunctions in ADHD: Implications for Inhibitory Control,...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Psychology
• Psychiatry

Background:

• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is characterized by deficits in executive functions (EFs).
• Non-invasive brain stimulation techniques like tDCS offer potential therapeutic avenues for ADHD-related cognitive impairments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of tDCS targeting the DLPFC and OFC on key EFs in children with ADHD.
• To determine if specific tDCS protocols can differentially modulate response inhibition, executive control, working memory, and cognitive flexibility.

Main Methods:

• Two experiments were conducted using tDCS on children with ADHD.
• Experiment 1 involved left anodal/right cathodal DLPFC tDCS versus sham. Experiment 2 involved left anodal/right cathodal OFC tDCS, left cathodal/right anodal OFC tDCS, versus sham.
• Cognitive performance was assessed using the Go/No-Go task, N-back test, WCST, and Stroop task.

Main Results:

• Anodal left DLPFC tDCS significantly improved executive control functions, including working memory and interference inhibition.
• Cathodal left DLPFC tDCS enhanced response inhibition.
• Combined DLPFC-OFC stimulation, but not DLPFC alone, improved cognitive flexibility and task switching.

Conclusions:

• Task-specific tDCS protocols can effectively enhance distinct executive functions in individuals with ADHD.
• Targeting specific prefrontal cortex regions with tDCS presents a promising strategy for improving cognitive deficits associated with ADHD.