The Combination of Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation and Electroencephalogram

Jiayue Zou; Jingzhen He; Yawei Qi; Qinghua He

doi:10.3791/68743

JoVE Journal
Neuroscience

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JoVE Journal Neuroscience

The Combination of Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation and Electroencephalogram

经颅交流电刺激与脑电图的结合

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06:14 min

October 10, 2025

DOI: 10.3791/68743-v

Jiayue Zou¹, Jingzhen He¹, Yawei Qi¹, Qinghua He¹

¹Faculty of Psychology,Southwest University

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Overview

This protocol establishes a practical approach for combining high definition transcranial alternating current stimulation (HD-tACS) with EEG to examine the neural oscillations during cognitive tasks, specifically using theta-frequency stimulation in working memory as a case study. The integration of these methods enables researchers to assess the physiological effects of stimulation on neural activity before and after cognitive tasks.

Key Study Components

Area of Science

Neuroscience
Electrophysiology
Cognitive Neuroscience

Background

High definition tACS is a method used to modulate brain activity.
The role of neural oscillations in cognitive functions is increasingly recognized.
EEG allows for real-time monitoring of brain activity.
Combining these techniques can enhance understanding of cognitive processes.

Purpose of Study

To provide a detailed protocol for integrating HD-tACS with EEG.
To assess the effects of theta frequency stimulation on working memory.
To promote broader applications of this dual-method approach in research.

Methods Used

The platform used includes EEG and a transcranial electrical stimulation device.
Participants perform a cognitive task while being stimulated to monitor EEG responses.
Key steps include impedance checks and ensuring electrode contact for clear recordings.
Stimulation parameters such as waveform, duration, and intensity are carefully calibrated.

Main Results

EEG pre-processing successfully removed ocular artifacts, improving data quality.
A reduction in theta band power was observed following stimulation compared to pre-stimulation baselines.
The protocol facilitates a better understanding of neuro-entrainment dynamics related to cognitive tasks.
This method can be applied to larger sample sizes for further exploration.

Conclusions

The study presents a viable method for combining HD-tACS and EEG to investigate cognitive functions.
The findings demonstrate the potential for HD-tACS to influence neural oscillations related to cognitive performance.
This approach may lead to greater insights into neurological mechanisms underlying cognition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the advantages of combining HD-tACS with EEG?

Integrating HD-tACS with EEG allows for simultaneous modulation of brain activity and monitoring of neural responses, enhancing the understanding of cognitive processes.

How is the cognitive task implemented during the experiment?

Participants perform a two-back working memory task while their EEG is recorded, allowing researchers to assess the effects of stimulation on neural activity during this cognitive function.

What types of data are obtained from this protocol?

The main outcomes include EEG signal recordings before and after stimulation, providing insights into neural oscillations and cognitive performance effects.

How can the method be adapted for different research questions?

The stimulation parameters can be modified for various cognitive tasks or populations, allowing for tailored investigations of specific neural mechanisms.

Are there any limitations to this approach?

One limitation may be the variability in individual participant responses to stimulation, which could affect generalizability of results.

What are the critical steps in preparing for stimulation?

Key steps include ensuring low electrode impedance, properly positioning EEG electrodes, and calibrating stimulation parameters before conducting the experiment.

How might this protocol impact future research?

By providing a framework for integrating stimulation and EEG, the protocol encourages exploration of neuro-entrainment and neuronal dynamics in various cognitive contexts.

该协议建立了一种将HD-tACS与脑电图相结合的实用方法，以工作记忆中的θ频率刺激为例，以检查刺激对认知任务期间神经振荡的影响。

当前方案旨在展示如何将高清经颅交流电流刺激与脑电图结合。通过在刺激前后记录脑电图，该方案使研究人员能够评估刺激对神经生理的影响。首先，在实验前清洁参与者的头皮。

将64通道脑电盖（电极按10-20系统排列）戴在参与者头部。通过在软件界面中选择阻抗来监控电极阻抗。将阻抗显示范围设置为0到5千欧，以确保高录音质量。

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