Targeting neural oscillations with transcranial alternating current stimulation

Justin Riddle; Flavio Frohlich

doi:10.1016/j.brainres.2021.147491

Targeting neural oscillations with transcranial alternating current stimulation

Brain Res. 2021 Aug 15:1765:147491. doi: 10.1016/j.brainres.2021.147491. Epub 2021 Apr 20.

Authors

Justin Riddle¹, Flavio Frohlich²

Affiliations

¹ Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; Carolina Center for Neurostimulation, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
² Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; Carolina Center for Neurostimulation, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA. Electronic address: flavio_frohlich@med.unc.edu.

Abstract

Neural oscillations at the network level synchronize activity between regions and temporal scales. Transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), the delivery of low-amplitude electric current to the scalp, provides a tool for investigating the causal role of neural oscillations in cognition. The parameter space for tACS is vast and optimization is required in terms of temporal and spatial targeting. We review emerging techniques and suggest novel approaches that capitalize on the non-sinusoidal and transient nature of neural oscillations and leverage the flexibility provided by a customizable electrode montage and electrical waveform. The customizability and safety profile of tACS make it a promising tool for precision intervention in psychiatric illnesses.

Keywords: Aperiodic signal; Current density; Electric field; Peak frequency; Phase-amplitude coupling; Waveform shape; Weighted phase lag index.

Publication types

Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
Review

MeSH terms

Cognition / physiology
Humans
Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / methods
Nerve Net / diagnostic imaging*
Nerve Net / physiology*
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation / methods*

Abstract

Publication types

MeSH terms

Grants and funding