P193 Brief Neurofeedback Training Increases Midline Alpha Activity in Default Mode Network
Matthew McGowan1, Alison Crilly1, Rongxiang Tang2,Yi-Yuan Tang*1
1College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe, United States
2Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, United States
*Email: yiyuan@asu.edu
Introduction
EEG Neurofeedback trains individuals to voluntarily modulate brainwave activity, promoting cognitive, emotional, and behavioral improvements by modulating large-scale brain networks and inducing neural plasticity [1]. While traditional neurofeedback protocols often require 20–40 sessions over several weeks or months, this study investigated whether a brief neurofeedback intervention—10 sessions over 2 weeks—could achieve similar neural regulation, particularly within the Default Mode Network (DMN).
Methods
To maximize the effects ofneurofeedback, we selected a protocol designed to reward frontal midline Theta (4–8 Hz) to enhance executive function and emotional balance, and central sensorimotor Rhythm (SMR, 12–15 Hz) to promote focus and calmness, while inhibiting posterior midline Beta (16–35 Hz) to reduce stress and improve sensory clarity. This protocol aims to enhance self-regulation, resilience, and overall brain efficiency, thereby facilitating neurofeedback learning and benefits.
Twenty participants with mild alcohol, tobacco, and/or cannabis use were recruited, and 19 provided usable data. Participants were instructed to complete each neurofeedback session with minimal effort to achieve the training goals. The NASA Task Load Index (NASA-TLX), a subjective workload assessment tool, was administered to 12 participants (11 with usable data) before and after 10 neurofeedback sessions. EEG recordings were taken before (T1) and after (T2) the training. The data were analyzed using Quantitative Electroencephalographic (QEEG) analysis, and paired t-tests were conducted to evaluate changes in brainwave patterns and neurofeedback workload (effort and mental demand).
Results
Quantitative EEG analysis revealed significant increases in frontal and posterior midline Alpha relative power (p= 0.011 andp= 0.013, respectively), alongside a significant decrease in the Theta/Alpha ratio (p= 0.047) and a significant increase in the Alpha/Beta ratio (p= 0.035). However, after neurofeedback, no significance in Theta and SMR power was detected, although a marginally significant reduction in Beta absolute power was found (p=0.074). Subjective workload assessments (NASA-TLX) indicated significant reductions in effort (p= 0.001) and mental demand (p= 0.0008).
Discussion
These findings suggest that brief neurofeedback training can enhance midline Alpha activity and modulate key neural frequency ratios, potentially improving DMN functional connectivity and promoting relaxation, self-reflection, and emotional regulation [2,3]. While preliminary, these results highlight the neuroplastic potential of short-term neurofeedback training, with implications for addressing DMN dysregulation in conditions such as substance use disorders, anxiety, and depression. Further research with larger samples is needed to understand the mechanisms and broader implications of these findings.
Acknowledgements
This work is supported by the ONR N000142412270 and NIH R33 AT010138.
References
1.Bowman, A. D., et al.(2017). Relationship between alpha rhythm and the default mode network: An EEG-fMRI study. J Clin Neurophysiol. 34(6), 527-533. https://doi.org/10.1097/WNP.0000000000000411
2.Tang, Y.Y.,&Posner, M. I. (2009). Attention training and attention state training. Trends Cogn Sci.13(5), 222–227.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tics.2009.01.009
3. Tang, Y.Y., Tang, R,Posner, M. I.,&Gross, J. J. (2022). Effortless training of attention and self-control: mechanisms and applications. Trends Cogn Sci. 26(7), 567-577. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tics.2022.04.006.
