Emotion Regulation Training for Treating 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 ca n 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 12 months n o cost extension). During year 3 of the project we have improved our recruitment and are now finishing rtfMRI - nf and EEG data collection. Preliminary data analysis indicates amygdala training with concurrent EEG recordings in a combat - related PTSD population is feasible, 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 will employ 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, 2015
- Accession Number
- ADA626545
Entities
People
- Jerzy Bodurka
Organizations
- Laureate Institute for Brain Research