Modulating Neural Oscillations with Transcranial Focused Ultrasound

Abstract

AbstractNeurons generate oscillatory activity that spans multiple frequencies, anatomical locations, and scales. Ever since their discovery almost 100 years ago, brain rhythms have fascinated scientists, but there is no clear consensus about their role in brain function and behavior. Accumulating evidence suggests that brain oscillations provide the mechanism for neurons to coordinate their activity in time and across the brain’s networks. These oscillations, it is argued, act as conductors or timekeepers so functional neural units can orchestrate their activity and share information. However, many questions remain open about neural rhythms and whether they play a causal role in brain function and behavior. This chapter will explore how developments in noninvasive brain stimulation, especially ultrasonic neuromodulation, can advance our understanding of brain oscillations and their causal role in brain function and behavior.