Feasibility of dual channel low field TMS for improvement of brain functioning.

Brain connectivity, which refers to the anatomical and functional connections between different brain regions, is often pathologically altered in patients with psychiatric or neurological disorders such as epilepsy. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a tool to non-invasively modulate brain function. It is known that TMS can influence brain connectivity, but epilepsy is one of the prime contra-indications for TMS research. We intend to overcome this limitation by using a very weak form of TMS, largely developed and implemented in-house: microTMS. This is a proof of principle study is required before this technique can be tested on patients.

Using low field stimulation on two brain regions simultaneously, we aim to specifically alter the connectivity between one or more pairs of brain areas.

1. Participants recruitment immediately after METC approved;

2. Measurements finalized as soon as enough participants are found;

3. Primary and secondary outcomes up to 6 months after the data were collected for the last subject.

Two electromagnets are fitted over the EEG/NIRS cap. Magnetic field flux densities <5mT are applied to the head. The microTMS stimulus will consist of pulsed magnetic stimulation. Pulses will consist of random white noise (frequencies ranging from 0.3-100Hz) with a Gaussian envelope and will have a duration of 50 ms followed by 30 ms of rest.
Before and after the stimulation the subjects will perform a cognitive task, during and before which EEG/NIRS will be recorded (active and resting conditions). These measurement are needed to determine the functional brain connectivity between two targeted brain areas.