2003/03/01 by Wolfgang Klimesch, Paul Sauseng, Christian Gerloff · 1 citation
Neuroscience · #EEG and Brain-Computer Interfaces #Neural and Behavioral Psychology Studies #Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Studies
paper · doi:10.1046/j.1460-9568.2003.02517.x
openalex publication_date 2003/03/01 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/29
We applied rapid-rate repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) at individual alpha frequency (IAF) to improve cognitive performance by influencing the dynamics of alpha desynchronization. Previous research indicates that a large upper alpha power in a reference interval preceding a task is related to both large suppression of upper alpha power during the task and good performance. Here, we tested the hypothesis that rTMS at individual upper alpha frequency (IAF + 1 Hz) can enhance alpha power in the reference interval, and can thus improve task performance. Repetitive TMS was delivered to the mesial frontal (Fz) and right parietal (P6) cortex, and as sham condition with 90 degrees-tilted coil (P6 position). The behavioural effect was assessed in a mental rotation task. Further control conditions were rTMS at a lower IAF (IAF - 3 Hz) and at 20 Hz. The results indicate that rTMS at IAF + 1 Hz can enhance task performance and, concomitantly, the extent of task-related alpha desynchronization. This provides further evidence for the functional relevance of oscillatory neuronal activity in the alpha band for the implementation of cognitive performance.