Grant: Discovery Grants Program - Individual

The long-term vision and goal of this research program is to significantly expand our knowledge of neuroplasticity in the prefrontal cortex (i.e., the brain's capacity for adaptive change) and explore innovative ways to potentiate these changes. Results from this program will help us understand how to augment learning and memory, and thus have the potential to benefit to different spheres of the Canadian society, such as Education, and impact policy makers. Neuroplasticity is a major adaptive property of the human brain. This phenomenon is key to learning, forming memories, and acquiring new skills. In animals, it is possible to potentiate neuroplasticity and, in effect, learning by simultaneously applying two types of electrical stimulation to neurons. Of note, a recent study showed a similar enhancement of neuroplasticity in the human motor area of the brain by simultaneously applying two types of neurostimulation techniques, theta burst stimulation (TBS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). This effect has yet to be studied beyond the motor cortex of the human brain. One key region for neuroplasticity is the prefrontal cortex, as it centrally involved in multiple cognitive functions, such as memory and attention. Notably, this region is the main area targeted with neurostimulation for the treatment of clinical disorders such as depression. However, mechanisms underlying neuroplasticity in the prefrontal cortex remain poorly understood and the capacity to potentiate neuroplasticity in this region remains unknown. Using an innovative, multimodal approach, the short-term objectives of this research program are to 1) develop a novel tDCS paradigm that is optimized to target the prefrontal cortex, and 2) investigate how to potentiate neuroplasticity and memory in this region using the simultaneous combination of tDCS and TBS. To develop the new tDCS paradigm, we will combine magnetic resonance imaging and complex computational techniques to optimize the electric field strength applied to the brain. We will then test the effect of this paradigm on prefrontal brain activity using a verified and state-of-the-art technique that simultaneously uses transcranial magnetic stimulation and electroencephalography (TMS-EEG). To potentiate neuroplasticity, we will simultaneously apply this novel tDCS paradigm with TBS, and test its efficacy on upregulating prefrontal activity (TMS-EEG) and working memory performance. With this research program, at least eight trainees will acquire cutting-edge skills in diverse interdisciplinary fields. In summary, this innovative research program will offer the gained knowledge to increase neuroplasticity and optimize brain reorganization, which has far-reaching applications for the field of natural sciences and beyond.