Exploring the optimal site for the localization of dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in brain stimulation experiments

Abstract

Background: Dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) is a common target for repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) experiments and therapeutic protocols. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the optimal method for the localization of DLPFC for use in these studies. Methods: Twelve healthy subjects underwent a structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, a TMS procedure to establish the location of the motor cortex and a neuronavigational procedure to assess the relative position of the DLPFC. Several electroencephalographic (EEG) points and a position 5 cm anterior to motor cortex were established. Results: The DLPFC site used was identified as being approximately halfway between the EEG points F3 and AF3. This point is considerably more anterior than the point identified by measuring 5 cm anterior to motor cortex. Conclusions: EEG points provide a useful way to optimally identify DLPFC. © 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.