Potential neurophysiological mechanisms of intermittent theta-burst stimulation to the left prefrontal cortex for post-stroke unilateral neglect: An exploratory transcranial magnetic stimulation - electroencephalography study
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Clinical Trial
Abstract: Objective: Unilateral neglect (UN) is a common complication after stroke, with limited effective treatment strategies. This study evaluates the therapeutic effects of intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS) on the intact dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) in UN patients and explores the neurophysiological mechanisms. Methods: Twenty UN patients were randomly assigned to an iTBS or sham stimulation group, receiving 10 consecutive days of treatment. Clinical assessments and TMS-EEG recordings were performed before and after treatment. Results: Patients receiving iTBS showed significant improvements in the Line Cancellation Test (p = 0.012). In addition, iTBS led to notable changes in cortical excitability and neural signal propagation. Specifically, the iTBS group exhibited a significant increase in the N100 component (p < 0.001). Time-frequency analysis also revealed a reduction in theta-band power in the affected frontal cortex post-treatment. At the network level, functional connectivity in the iTBS group was significantly enhanced, particularly within interhemispheric frontal and frontoparietal networks during the later stages of the treatment. Conclusion: iTBS effectively alleviates UN symptoms by modulating cortical excitability and enhancing functional connectivity, suggesting it as a promising therapeutic intervention for UN.
Source: IBRO Neuroscience Reports
Language: English
Subfield: Neurology
Field: Neuroscience
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,400
Awards: G4268443325, G8617960453
OpenAlex ID: W4413869718