40 Hz sensory stimulation enhances CA3-CA1 coordination and prospective coding during navigation in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease.

Abstract

Brain stimulation has emerged as a new potential therapeutic approach to potentially correct or improve altered neural activity in Alzheimer's disease. One such approach, 40 Hz sensory stimulation, or flicker, has been shown to improve cognition in disease models. However, it is not clear how 40 Hz flicker affects neural activity underlying memory processes. Here, we investigate how 40 Hz flicker exposure affects neural activity patterns that are crucial for memory. We find 40Hz flicker increases neural coordination in memory circuits, indicating better communication. Furthermore, 40Hz flicker increased neural representations of future positions, patterns theorized to support memory-based planning. These results indicate that 40 Hz flicker increases key neural activity that is important for memory.