Repeated application of bifocal transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) improves network connectivity and driving performance: a double-blind sham control study

Mounting evidence suggests that transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) can enhance response inhibition, a cognitive process crucial for sustained effort and decision-making. However, most prior studies have focused on within-session effects, with limited investigation into the effects of repeated applications, which are crucial for clinical applications. We examined the effects of repeated bifocal tACS targeting the right inferior frontal gyrus (rIFG) and pre-supplementary motor area (preSMA), regions implicated in response inhibition, on inhibitory control. We also explored changes to functional connectivity and whether this stimulation improved simulated driving performance. Thirty young adults (18–35 years) were assigned to either a sham or tACS group (20 Hz, 20 minutes), undergoing five stimulation sessions over two weeks. Resting-state electroencephalography (EEG) was used to assess functional connectivity between the preSMA and rIFG during the first and fifth bifocal tACS sessions and at a 7-day follow-up. Response inhibition was measured using a stop-signal task (SST) administered throughout the sessions. Participants completed two simulated driving tasks (braking, general driving) before the first and after the final tACS intervention. Results revealed a significant improvement in functional connectivity in the tACS group across sessions, although no changes were observed in response inhibition and the braking task. Notably, general driving performance improved, with participants demonstrating closer adherence to the speed limit and greater spare attentional capacity. These findings highlight the potential of repeated bifocal tACS to enhance functional connectivity and related cognitive and motor processes, suggesting promising clinical applications for addressing issues related to cortical connectivity.