Identifying novel biomarkers with TMS-EEG - Methodological possibilities and challenges

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Neurophysiology
• Biomarker Discovery

Background:

• Biomarkers are crucial for diagnosing brain disorders and creating treatments.
• Neurophysiological tools are advancing biomarker development.
• Understanding neurotransmitter systems and brain connectivity is key.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current state of biomarker development using combined transcranial magnetic stimulation and electroencephalography (TMS-EEG).
• To summarize existing TMS-EEG protocols.
• To discuss the potential and challenges of TMS-EEG for biomarker discovery.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on TMS-EEG protocols.
• Analysis of TMS-EEG's capability in assessing neurotransmitter systems (inhibitory and excitatory).
• Evaluation of TMS-EEG for mapping effective connectivity in the brain.

Main Results:

• TMS-EEG is an emerging neurophysiological tool with potential for biomarker identification.
• The method can probe inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitter systems.
• Effective brain connectivity can be assessed using TMS-EEG.

Conclusions:

• Combined TMS-EEG offers a promising avenue for developing novel biomarkers for brain disorders.
• Further research and standardized protocols are needed to overcome current challenges.
• This methodology holds potential for advancing our understanding and treatment of neurological conditions.