⚡ Research Focus
Our lab investigates non-invasive brain stimulation techniques, including transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), and more recently, transcranial interferential stimulation (TIS). These methods aim to modulate brain activity, enhance neuroplasticity, and support functional recovery in patients with neurological disorders such as stroke, dementia, and movement disorders.
We are particularly interested in personalized, task-integrated, and closed-loop neuromodulation systems that interact with ongoing brain states to improve therapeutic outcomes.
Background
Transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) has emerged as a safe and effective tool for influencing cortical excitability and synchronizing neural oscillations. Conventional techniques such as:
tDCS: Delivers a constant low current to modulate membrane potential
tACS: Uses oscillating current to entrain endogenous brain rhythms
These have shown clinical efficacy in improving motor and cognitive functions, especially when combined with rehabilitation training.
However, conventional tES methods have limited spatial precision and depth penetration. To overcome these challenges, transcranial interferential stimulation (TIS) has been proposed. TIS involves two high-frequency alternating currents applied through separate electrode pairs. Their interaction generates a low-frequency envelope deep in the brain, enabling non-invasive, focal, and deep stimulation—a long-standing goal in neuromodulation research.
Key Research Directions
Understanding frequency-specific and spatially-targeted effects of brain stimulation
Designing multifocal and high-definition electrode montages based on individualized models
Developing closed-loop stimulation systems using EEG and behavioral feedback
Translating neuromodulation into task-driven and patient-specific protocols