The Combination of Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation and Electroencephalogram

Jiayue Zou; Jingzhen He; Yawei Qi; Qinghua He

doi:10.3791/68743

A combinação de estimulação transcraniana por corrente alternada e eletroencefalograma

JoVE Journal
Neuroscience

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JoVE Journal Neuroscience

The Combination of Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation and Electroencephalogram

A combinação de estimulação transcraniana por corrente alternada e eletroencefalograma

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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.

Este protocolo estabelece uma abordagem prática para combinar HD-tACS com EEG para examinar os efeitos da estimulação nas oscilações neurais durante tarefas cognitivas, usando a estimulação de frequência na memória de trabalho como exemplo.

O protocolo atual visa demonstrar como combinar estimulação transcraniana em alta definição com corrente alternada com EEG. Ao registrar o EEG antes e depois da estimulação, esse protocolo permite que os pesquisadores avaliem os efeitos fisiológicos neurais da estimulação. Para começar, limpe o couro cabeludo do participante antes do experimento.

Coloque a cápsula cerebral de EEG de 64 canais, com eletrodos dispostos de acordo com o sistema 10-20 na cabeça do participante. Monitore a impedância do eletrodo selecionando impedância na interface de software. Ajuste a faixa de exibição de impedância de zero a cinco quilograms, para garantir alta qualidade de gravação.

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