Supporting Episodic Memory With Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation in Healthy Controls and Dementia Patients

Supporting Episodic Memory With Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation in Healthy Young and Elderly Participants as Well as in Individuals With Memory Impairment

Previous studies showed that anodal tDCS applied over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) improved episodic memory performance, indicating a possible use as an intervention for patients suffering from memory impairments. At the same time, only scant evidence (provided by functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS)) exists regarding the underlying mechanisms, thus hindering a more targeted application.

The present study aims at establishing a connection between the stimulation-induced change in episodic memory performance on the behavioural level and neurophysiological parameters. TDCS effects and the underlying mechanisms will be compared between different study conditions, receiving either real anodal tDCS or sham stimulation over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex during an episodic memory task.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Written informed consent
• Right-handedness
• Non-smokers
• Native German speakers or comparable level of fluency
• Normal or corrected-to-normal vision

Exclusion Criteria:

• Neurological or psychiatric condition (other than diagnosed cognitive impairment)
• Past head injuries
• Magnetizable implants
• History of seizures
• Current or life-time alcohol or drug abuse
• Pregnancy
• Skin diseases