The impact of a tDCS and cognitive training intervention on task-based functional connectivity

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Psychology
• Gerontology

Background:

• Non-pathological aging is associated with cognitive declines, particularly in processing speed.
• Cognitive training, especially the useful field of view (UFOV) paradigm, shows promise for improving cognition in older adults.
• Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that can enhance cognitive functions like attention and working memory.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the combined effects of tDCS and a 3-month cognitive training intervention on task-based functional connectivity in older adults.
• To assess whether active tDCS, in conjunction with cognitive training, enhances functional connectivity more than cognitive training alone.
• To explore the relationship between changes in functional connectivity and behavioral improvements.

Main Methods:

• A large sample of older adults (N = 153) participated in a 3-month intervention.
• Participants received either active tDCS or sham tDCS alongside cognitive training.
• Task-based functional connectivity was measured during the UFOV task, focusing on regions near the tDCS electrodes (left and right pars triangularis).

Main Results:

• Active tDCS, combined with cognitive training, led to significant increases in functional connectivity between the left and right pars triangularis.
• Sham tDCS did not produce similar increases in functional connectivity.
• Trending behavioral improvements were observed in the active tDCS group, correlating with functional connectivity changes.

Conclusions:

• The combination of tDCS and cognitive training effectively modulates task-based functional connectivity in older adults.
• This combined approach may offer benefits beyond cognitive training alone for addressing age-related cognitive decline.
• Findings suggest tDCS can enhance the neural mechanisms underlying cognitive improvement in aging.