iTBS Effect on M1 Plasticity, Blood Glucose, and Cardiovascular Response

The Effect of Intermittent Theta-Burst Stimulation on Motor Cortical Plasticity, Blood Glucose, and Cardiovascular Response in Healthy Young Adults

Transcranial magnetic stimulation is a medical device that can alter motor cortical (M1) excitability through the scalp via various protocols. Among these, intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS) is a novel protocol that enhances the M1 excitability for several minutes beyond stimulation. The changes in M1 excitability might in turn be accompanied by other physiological responses in the human body. This study will explore the effect of iTBS protocol on M1 plasticity, heart rate, blood pressure, and blood glucose in healthy young adults in comparison to sham stimulation.

Inclusion criteria:

• Healthy young adults (18-35 years old)
• Right-handed
• Fully vaccinated against COVID-19

Exclusion criteria:

• Subjects with contraindications to TMS based on the screening 13-item questionnaire for TMS candidacy
• Smokers
• Obese (BMI ≥ 30)
• Highly active subjects
• Active or previous lab-confirmed COVID-19 with long symptoms