Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Modulates EEG Microstates in Low-Functioning Autism: A Pilot Study.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Developmental Psychology
• Clinical Neurology

Background:

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition impacting behavior.
• Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is an emerging neuromodulation technique with potential therapeutic applications.
• Understanding EEG microstate differences in ASD is crucial for developing targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of tDCS on EEG microstates in children with ASD.
• To compare EEG microstates between children with typical development (TD) and ASD.
• To evaluate changes in EEG microstates and Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC) scores following tDCS in ASD.

Main Methods:

• EEG microstate analysis was performed on children with TD and ASD.
• Children with ASD received either active tDCS or sham stimulation.
• EEG microstates and ABC scores were assessed before and after intervention.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in microstates A, B, and D were observed between TD and ASD groups.
• Active tDCS in the ASD group led to significant changes in microstates A and C, and ABC scores.
• The control (sham) group showed no significant changes in EEG microstates or ABC scores.

Conclusions:

• tDCS demonstrates potential as a viable treatment for ASD.
• The findings suggest tDCS can modulate brain activity and behavior in individuals with ASD.
• Further research is warranted to explore tDCS efficacy in ASD treatment.