Real-time Neurofeedback Training of Fronto-limbic Regions Functional Connectivity

Real-time Neurofeedback Training of Fronto-limbic Areas Functional Connectivity to Reduce Arousal

This is randomized active-sham group controlled between-subject real-time fMRI neurofeedback trial aimed at modulating the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC)-amygdala pathway to control subjective anxiety and arousal.

The present randomized active-sham group controlled between-subject real-time fMRI neurofeedback trial aims at determining if (1) subjects can gain volitional control over the vmPFC-amygdala pathway involved in implicit emotion regulation and arousal by means of connectivity informed neurofeedback, (2) whether the training has specific effects on the behavioral and psychophysiological arousal level, and (3) or the amygdala or the vmPFC connectivity, respectively.

The present project will determine the efficacy of the modulation of the vmPFC-amygdala functional connectivity pathway using vmPFC-amygdala upregulation (n = 25 subjects) compared to a sham control condition (targeting pathways not involved in emotion regulation, n = 20).

Inclusion Criteria:

• age > 18 years old
• other genders
• No past or current psychiatric or neurological or other main disorders.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnant, taking oral contraceptives
• Current use of medications
• Contraindication to MRI scanning (e.g., metal implants, claustrophobia or other conditions that make them inappropriate for MRI scanning).