Prof. Christoph S. Herrmann | Transcranial alternating current stimulation: Models, EEG/MEG, and cognition

It has been repeatedly demonstrated that EEG oscillations reflect cognitive processes. So far, however, EEG oscillations have only been correlated with cognitive functions. A new method now allows to demonstrate their causal role in brain function. During transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) an alternating current is applied to the scalp of human subjects and interferes with EEG oscillations. In order to determine the placement of stimulation electrodes, finite element models are used to predict intracranial current flow at the target location. A network of simulated neurons is used to demonstrate that tACS results in an entrainment of ongoing brain oscillations. Multiple experiments will be introduced that all apply tACS at different frequencies in order to modulate both EEG oscillations and cognitive processes. The results demonstrate that tACS can modulate ongoing EEG oscillations. This modulation, in turn, modulates cognitive processes such as detection and perception.

Poster