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Alpha activity neuromodulation induced by individual alpha-based neurofeedback learning in ecological context: a
Fanny Grosselin1,2,3, Audrey Breton4, Lydia Yahia-Cherif5,6,7,8
1Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau-Paris Brain Institute (ICM), INSERM U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Equipe Aramis, 75013, Paris, France. fanny.grosselin@mybraintech.com.
Scientific Reports
|September 17, 2021
Summary
Neurofeedback training (NFT) effectively increases individual alpha EEG activity. Psychological benefits like reduced anxiety were observed in both NFT and control groups, suggesting placebo effects may play a role.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Science
- Biofeedback
Background:
- Neurofeedback training (NFT) is a technique used to modulate brain activity.
- The specific neuromodulatory effects of NFT are debated, requiring controlled studies.
- Factors like reward and task congruency can confound results, necessitating robust control conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the specific neuromodulation of individual alpha EEG activity induced by NFT.
- To differentiate the effects of NFT from placebo and learning effects using a sham-controlled design.
- To assess the impact of NFT on psychological outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, randomized, sham-controlled study involving 48 healthy participants.
- Participants underwent 12 weeks of alpha upregulation training using a wearable EEG device.
- The neurofeedback (NF) group received real-time feedback on their alpha activity, while the control group received sham feedback.
Main Results:
- Significant increase in alpha EEG activity was observed exclusively in the NF group (p < 0.001).
- Neuromodulation was selective to the alpha band, with no significant changes in theta or low beta bands.
- Psychological outcomes, including feeling of control, anxiety, and relaxation, improved similarly across both groups.
Conclusions:
- NFT can selectively modulate individual alpha EEG activity.
- Observed psychological benefits may be influenced by learning context and placebo effects.
- Wearable EEG systems show potential for self-directed neurofeedback-based neuromodulation.
