To enhance learning by entraining theta oscillations in the frontal cortex using transcranial alternating current stimulation
ID
Source
Brief title
Condition
- Other condition
Synonym
Health condition
niet van toepassing - onderzoek bij gezonde vrijwilligers
Research involving
Sponsors and support
Intervention
Outcome measures
Primary outcome
Rule learning during a reinforcement task in which fictitious monetary reward
and punishment schedules change during the task.
Secondary outcome
Spontaneous brain oscillations before and after online tACS to examine changes
in frontal cortical activity
Background summary
There is evidence from the scientific literature to suggest a relationship
between 6 Hz (theta) activity in the frontal cortex and the ability to learn
during uncertain situations. Transcranial alternating current stimulation
(tACS) is a non-invasive and safe method that uses weak electrical oscillating
currents to the scalp to influence cortical activity. This methods is able to
test the hypothesis that theta tACS will improve leaning during uncertainty in
a direct manner. This study will broaden our understanding of frontal brain
function and provides insights possible ways of improving learning by way of
non-invasive neuromodulation.
Study objective
To enhance learning by entraining theta oscillations in the frontal cortex
using transcranial alternating current stimulation
Study design
Placebo controlled double-blind between subjects design.
Intervention
Online transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) will be delivered by
a battery-driven electric current stimulator (Eldith DC Stimulator (CE 0118),
Ilmenau) using a pair of electrodes (35 cm^2) over the left and right frontal
scalp during the learning task (~15min): (1) active theta tACS (6 Hz, 1 mA/ 35
cm^2); (2) sham theta tACS (0 mA/ 35 cm^2).
Study burden and risks
The currently proposed tACS procedure and experiment does not carry any
significant risks. Stimulation will be performed in line with the Standard
Operating Procedure Non-Invasive brain stimulation of the Donders Institute for
Brain, Cognition and Behaviour. Potential side-effects of tACS are perception
of phosphenes, light tingling, itching or burning sensations on the under the
electrodes and/or light headache. These are mild discomforts that respond
promptly to common analgesics. Volunteers can withdraw from the study at any
given time and there are no direct benefits for the participants. The novel
insights will broaden our understanding of the brain and may contribute to the
feasibility and development of possible new ways to improve learning using
non-invasive brain stimulation.
Montessorilaan 3
Nijmegen 6525HR
NL
Montessorilaan 3
Nijmegen 6525HR
NL
Listed location countries
Age
Inclusion criteria
Between 18-35 years of age years; Right-handed; Non-smoking; Normal or corrected-to-normal vision; Willingness and ability to give written informed consent and willingness and ability to understand the nature and content, to participate and to comply with the study requirements.
Exclusion criteria
(1) Average use of more than 3 alcoholic beverages daily; (2) Use of psychotropic medication or recreational drugs; (3) Skin disease; (4) Pregnancy; (5) Serious head trauma or brain surgery; (6) Neurological or psychiatric disorders; (7) Large or ferromagnetic metal parts in the head (except for a dental wire); (8) Implanted cardiac pacemaker or neurostimulator; (9) Participation in a NBS study in the past 28 days; (10) Previous participation in 10 or more NBS studies.
Design
Recruitment
Followed up by the following (possibly more current) registration
No registrations found.
Other (possibly less up-to-date) registrations in this register
No registrations found.
In other registers
| Register | ID |
|---|---|
| CCMO | NL49613.091.14 |