Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 26, 2025
Real-time Video Projection in an MRI for Characterization of Neural Correlates Associated with Mirror Therapy for Phantom Limb Pain
Published on: April 20, 2019
Mu-Suppression Neurofeedback Training Targeting the Mirror Neuron System: A Pilot Study.
Samaneh S Dastgheib1,2,3, Wenbo Wang1,2,3, Jürgen M Kaufmann1,2
1Department for General Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute of Psychology, Friedrich Schiller University of Jena, Am Steiger 3/1, 07743, Jena, Germany.
Neurofeedback training (NFT) showed partial success in enhancing the mirror neuron system (MNS) by inducing mu suppression in specific brain areas during movement observation. However, effects on social cognition skills were not significant, suggesting further research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Psychology
- Brain-Computer Interfaces
Background:
- Neurofeedback training (NFT) is an emerging intervention, with mu rhythm desynchronization in EEG over centro-parietal areas indicating mirror neuron system (MNS) activation.
- The MNS is linked to social skills, but the precise impact of NFT on MNS function requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of a mu suppression neurofeedback training protocol on MNS activation in healthy neurotypical adults.
- To assess changes in EEG mu suppression and performance on the "Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test" (RMET) following NFT.
Main Methods:
- Sixteen healthy participants underwent 15 sessions of NFT (45 min each) using a mu suppression protocol.
- 64-channel EEG was recorded during pre- and post-training sessions while participants observed movement videos and completed the RMET.
- EEG source reconstruction and frequency analysis were employed to evaluate MNS-attributed brain activity.
Main Results:
- Post-NFT EEG source analysis revealed significant mu suppression in MNS-attributed fronto-parietal areas during observation of hand movements.
- Frequency analysis did not show significant mu suppression, though numerical trends were observed in some participants.
- Behaviorally, RMET accuracy remained unchanged, but response times decreased, indicating faster, though not more accurate, emotional interpretation.
Conclusions:
- Preliminary evidence suggests mu suppression NFT can induce localized mu suppression in MNS-related brain regions.
- The study highlights the need for more robust experimental designs and extended training durations to achieve consistent MNS modulation and behavioral improvements, especially for social cognition.
