Effect of HD-tDCS combined with working memory training on brain network

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Science
• Brain Stimulation Techniques

Background:

• Non-invasive brain stimulation, including High-Definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS), is utilized for modulating brain function.
• Existing research primarily focuses on the effects of brain stimulation, often overlooking the underlying neurophysiological mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of HD-tDCS combined with working memory training on brain network connectivity and information transmission efficiency.
• To explore these effects when stimulation is specifically applied to the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (LDLPFC).

Main Methods:

• Utilized Partial Directed Coherence (PDC) for task-mode brain network analysis in 34 participants.
• Compared an active HD-tDCS group with a sham stimulation group during working memory training.

Main Results:

• Significant enhancement in brain network connectivity within the α and β frequency bands was observed in the active HD-tDCS group compared to the sham group.
• The active group demonstrated improvements in brain network parameters, including clustering coefficient and global efficiency, unlike the sham group.
• HD-tDCS applied to the LDLPFC positively influenced brain network dynamics during working memory tasks.

Conclusions:

• HD-tDCS, when combined with working memory training, significantly enhances brain network connectivity.
• This neurostimulation approach improves the efficiency of brain network clustering and information transmission.
• The findings highlight the potential of HD-tDCS as a tool to optimize cognitive functions through targeted brain modulation.