V. Fruhwirth
Medical University of Graz NeurologyAuthor Of 1 Presentation
PS13.03 - MRI correlates of Cognitive Improvement after Home-Based EEG Neurofeedback Training in MS: A Pilot Study
Abstract
Background
Neurofeedback training shows promise to improve cognitive function in neurological patients. However, to date the underlying brain mechanisms of such improvements are poorly understood.
Objectives
To investigate MRI correlates of cognitive improvement after EEG-based neurofeedback training in patients with MS (pwMS).
Methods
Fourteen pwMS (7 female; mean age = 38.9, SD=2.2; disease duration = 9 years, SD= 1.9; median EDSS= 2.5 (3.5)) performed ten neurofeedback training sessions within 3-4 weeks at home using a tele-rehabilitation system. Half of the pwMS (N = 7 Responder) successfully learned to self-regulate sensorimotor rhythm (SMR, 12-15 Hz) in the EEG by receiving visual feedback and showed cognitive improvements (assessed by the overall T-score change of the BRB-N) after neurofeedback training. Non-responders (N=7) did neither improve in cognitive function nor were able to modulate their brain activity. Diffusion-tensor imaging and resting-state fMRI was performed before and after neurofeedback training. Whole brain fractional anisotropy (FA) and functional connectivity (FC) of the default-mode, sensorimotor and salience network were explored.
Results
At baseline, responders and non-responders were comparable regarding sex, age, education, disease duration, physical and cognitive function and T2-lesion-load. Responders showed increased FA and FC within the salience network (FCSal) and sensorimotor network after neurofeedback training compared to non-responders. Training-related increases in FCSal correlated with cognitive improvement (r=0.886, p<0.0001).
Conclusions
This exploratory study suggests that neurofeedback training could successfully lead to cognitive improvement and associated changes in brain microstructure and FC.