Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Enhances Motor Performance by Modulating Beta-Phase Synchronization in the Sensorimotor Network: A Preliminary Study.

Abstract

Background/objectives: Synchronized beta-band oscillations (14-30 Hz) are critical for sensorimotor processing and motor performance. Modulating beta activity either locally in targeted brain regions or globally across sensorimotor networks may enhance motor function. This study aimed to explore whether transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and alternating current stimulation (tACS) could enhance sensorimotor responses by modulating beta-band synchronization.

Methods: Eight participants performed a stimulus-response task requiring a quick keypress to a visual cue. Response times (RTs) and electroencephalography (EEG) data were recorded during pre-, in-, and post-stimulation sessions for five conditions: motor-anodal tDCS, visual-anodal tDCS, alpha (10 Hz) tACS, beta (20 Hz) tACS, and sham, with a one-week interval between conditions.

Results: Significant RT reductions were observed only after motor-anodal tDCS. EEG analysis revealed a positive correlation between these RT reductions and increased beta-phase synchronization between visual and motor areas. In contrast, tACS conditions did not yield significant RT improvements or beta-phase synchronization changes.

Conclusions: These findings indicate that motor-anodal tDCS has the potential to enhance sensorimotor performance by facilitating beta-phase synchronization across the visual-motor network. The observed effects likely extend beyond localized neuronal modulation, emphasizing the importance of network-level connectivity in sensorimotor integration. Beta-phase synchronization appears to play a critical role in integrating visual and motor information, contributing to task-related performance improvements. Further research is warranted to build upon these findings and fully elucidate the underlying mechanisms.