Modulating Cortico-cortical Networks with Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation: A Minireview
1Graduate Course of Health and Social Work, Kanagawa University of Human Services, Japan.
Physical Therapy Research
|May 5, 2025
Summary
Transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) can now modulate brain networks by targeting two regions simultaneously. This approach enhances neural entrainment for potential neurorehabilitation applications.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Brain Imaging
- Noninvasive Brain Stimulation
Background:
- Behavior emerges from coordinated activity within cortico-cortical brain networks.
- Noninvasive brain stimulation (NIBS) techniques like transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) traditionally target single brain regions.
- Recent research suggests tACS can modulate network strength by stimulating multiple regions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of cortico-cortical networks in behavior via functional connectivity.
- To analyze tACS as a tool for modifying these networks through neural entrainment.
- To highlight tACS's potential in neurorehabilitation for network-related brain disorders.
Main Methods:
- Review of neuroimaging techniques for identifying functional connectivity.
- Analysis of tACS mechanisms for neural entrainment and network modulation.
- Exploration of dual-region tACS applications.
Main Results:
- tACS can synchronize brain oscillations with external stimuli (neural entrainment).
- Simultaneous dual-region tACS offers a novel method for modulating cortico-cortical network strength.
- This approach differs from traditional single-region NIBS techniques.
Conclusions:
- tACS is a promising tool for targeted modulation of cortico-cortical networks.
- Dual-region tACS holds potential for neurorehabilitation in disorders characterized by network dysfunction.
- This technique represents a novel approach beyond traditional NIBS applications.
