Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Potential P300-Related Events and Alpha and Beta EEG Band Rhythms in Parkinson's Disease

Abstract

Background: Parkinson's disease is one of the most common neurodegenerative disorders. While a definitive cure for Parkinson's disease remains elusive, a range of treatments are available to slow its progression and counteract its symptoms. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) represents a non-invasive method to induce brain plasticity. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of two weeks of tDCS on the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) on the neurophysiological functioning of Parkinson's patients. Methods: Thirty patients aged between 67 and 82 years with Parkinson's disease participated to the experiment. Fifteen underwent tDCS on the left DLPFC, while fifteen underwent sham tDCS. Neurophysiological functions were assessed before and after tDCS using electroencephalogram methods for alpha and beta band rhythms and P300 event-related potential latency. Results: tDCS led to a reduction in the onset latency of the P300 response and an increase in the power spectrum of the alpha and beta band rhythms. Conclusions: This research enhances our understanding of the potential effects of tDCS in the context of Parkinson's disease treatment, as the reduction in P300 latency and the increase in alpha and beta bands are associated with improvements in cognitive aspects.