Effect of tACS Stimulation on Alpha Oscillations

Rational Optimization of tACS for Targeting Thalamo-Cortical Oscillations (Experiment 2)

Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation (tACS) is one method that has been demonstrated to enhance alpha oscillations in healthy participants by applying weak electrical currents to the scalp to modulate rhythmic brain activity patterns. This study will involve tACS-induced frontal alpha oscillations, EEG recordings, and other physiological and biological measures.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Ages 18-65
• Capacity to understand all relevant risks and potential benefits of the study (informed consent)
• Negative pregnancy test for female participants

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of major neurological or psychiatric illness, including epilepsy
• Medication use associated with neurological or psychiatric illnesses
• Currently undergoing counseling or psychotherapy treatment for depression, anxiety, eating disorders, PTSD or other behavioral conditions
• First degree relative (parent, sibling, child) with major neurological or psychiatric illness
• Prior brain surgery
• Major head injury
• Any brain devices/implants (including cochlear implants and aneurysm clips)
• Braids or other hair styling that prevents direct access to the scalp (if removal not possible)
• Skin allergies or very sensitive skin
• Pregnant or nursing females
• Failure to pass a urinary drug test at the first session
• Use of hormonal birth control or supplements in the past two weeks
• Non English speakers
• Cardiovascular disease