Gamma connectivity predicts response to intermittent theta burst stimulation in Alzheimer’s disease: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

There is growing evidence that neural network dysfunction is a likely proximate cause of cognitive impairment in Alzheimer’s disease and may represent a promising therapeutic target. Here, we investigated whether a course of intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) could modulate functional connectivity and cognition in mild to moderate Alzheimer’s. In a double-blind parallel randomized sham-controlled trial, 58 participants were randomized to either active or sham iTBS. Stimulation was applied to the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, left posterior parietal cortex, and right posterior parietal cortex in every treatment session. Neurobiological (electroencephalography), cognitive, and behavioral functional assessments were undertaken at baseline and end of treatment. Cognitive and functional assessments were also conducted at 3 (blinded) and 6 month (active group only) follow-ups. Active iTBS increased resting-state gamma connectivity and improved delayed recall on an episodic memory task. Both baseline gamma connectivity and change in gamma connectivity predicted improved delayed recall following active treatment. These findings support future research into iTBS for Alzheimer’s focusing on protocol optimization.