Combining transcranial magnetic stimulation with functional magnetic resonance imaging for probing and modulating neural circuits relevant to affective disorders

Abstract

Combining transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) with functional magnetic resonance imaging offers an unprecedented tool for studying how brain networks interact in vivo and how repetitive trains of TMS modulate those networks among patients diagnosed with affective disorders. TMS compliments neuroimaging by allowing the interrogation of causal control among brain circuits. Together with TMS, neuroimaging can provide valuable insight into the mechanisms underlying treatment effects and downstream circuit communication. Here we provide a background of the method, review relevant study designs, consider methodological and equipment options, and provide statistical recommendations. We conclude by describing emerging approaches that will extend these tools into exciting new applications. This article is categorized under: Psychology > Emotion and Motivation Psychology > Theory and Methods Neuroscience > Clinical Neuroscience.

Keywords: TMS; affective disorders; anxiety; depression; fMRI.

Figure 1

A hypothesized schematic wherein transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is applied to multiple possible sites (red, blue coils) and the fMRI evoked response (plots) are used to determine a treatment target (right side, red coil)