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Probing the Brain in Autism Using fMRI and Diffusion Tensor Imaging
Published on: September 12, 2011
TDCS Modulates Brain Functional Networks in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Resting-State EEG Study
Jiannan Kang1, Wenqin Mao1, Juanmei Wu1
1Child Rehabilitation Division, Ningbo Rehabilitation Hospital, 315000 Ningbo, Zhejiang, China.
Journal of Integrative Neuroscience
|March 28, 2025
Summary
Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) shows promise for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The intervention modulated brain functional networks, improving connectivity and reducing temporal variability in children with ASD.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by differences in social interaction, communication, and behavior.
- Altered brain functional network connectivity and temporal variability are observed in individuals with ASD.
- Non-invasive brain stimulation techniques like tDCS are being explored as potential interventions for ASD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on brain functional networks in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
- To compare brain functional connectivity, temporal variability, and network properties between children with ASD and typically developing (TD) children.
- To assess changes in these brain network characteristics following a 20-session tDCS intervention in children with ASD.
Main Methods:
- Resting-state electroencephalography (EEG) data were collected from children with ASD and TD children.
- Brain functional networks were constructed using phase-locking value (PLV), and temporal variability was assessed using fuzzy entropy.
- Graph theory analysis was employed to examine network characteristics, with comparisons made before and after tDCS intervention in the ASD group.
Main Results:
- Children with ASD exhibited distinct patterns of brain connectivity (lower in alpha, higher in beta bands) and increased temporal variability across frequency bands compared to TD children.
- Following tDCS intervention, children with ASD showed a significant decrease in Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC) scores.
- tDCS treatment led to increased functional connectivity in delta and alpha bands and decreased temporal variability in delta and beta bands in children with ASD.
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest that tDCS can effectively modulate brain functional networks in children with ASD.
- tDCS intervention demonstrated positive effects on brain network characteristics and behavioral symptoms.
- tDCS represents a promising therapeutic approach for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
Keywords:
autism spectrum disorder (ASD)brain functional networkelectroencephalogram (EEG)phase locking value (PLV)transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)
