Emotion Regulation Training for Training Warfighters with Combat Related PTSD Using Real Time fMRI and EEG Assisted Neurofeedback
Abstract
PTSD is a chronic and disabling condition. Neurocircuitry-based models of PTSD emphasize dysregulation of the amygdala, which is involved in the regulation of PTSD-relevant emotions. We are utilizing real-time functional magnetic resonance imaging neurofeedback (rtfMRI-nf) training with concurrent electroencephalography (EEG) recordings to directly target and modulate the emotion regulation neurocircuit. By using multimodal data, we can determine which EEG signals/leads or their combination specifically predicts or correlates with clinical improvement associated with the rtfMRI-nf training. Difficult recruitment is the main reason behind the delayed study schedule (currently 2nd year no cost extension). During year 4 of the project we have improved our recruitment, finished rtfMRI-nf and EEG data collection, and started EEG-only data collection. Data analysis indicates amygdala training with concurrent EEG recordings in a combat-related PTSD population is feasible, tolerated well and this procedure resulted in improvements in PTSD symptoms. We identified the variations in frontal upper alpha EEG asymmetry (FEA) during the rtfMRI-nf amygdala training as a promising measure of PTSD severity and treatment response. We are employing this measure together with our already developed stand-alone EEG-only neurofeedback training protocol to evaluate FEA EEG-nf training feasibility in combat-related PTSD.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2016
- Accession Number
- AD1022855
Entities
People
- Jerzy Bodurka
Organizations
- Laureate Institute for Brain Research