Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique that uses electromagnetic pulses to temporarily alter neural activity in targeted brain regions. Unlike other neuroimaging methods like EEG or fNIRS, TMS is primarily a perturbational method; it temporarily modulates brain activity rather than measures it. The procedure involves placing a magnetic coil close to the scalp and administering a magnetic pulse or pulses with carefully selected parameters. TMS has applications in causally investigating neural circuits and understanding the role of specific brain regions in cognitive tasks. However, it is limited in its spatial resolution and its ability to target deep-brain structures. Researchers must adhere to safety guidelines and consider ethical implications when applying TMS in experimental settings.

Our system

  • DuoMAG XT-100 rTMS by BrainBox.

Useful links

Further Reading

  • Rossi, S., Hallett, M., Rossini, P. M., & Pascual-Leone, A. (2009). Safety, ethical considerations, and application guidelines for the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation in clinical practice and research. Clinical Neurophysiology, 120(12), 2008-2039.
  • Eldaief, M. C., Press, D. Z., & Pascual-Leone, A. (2013). Transcranial magnetic stimulation in neurology: A review of established and prospective applications. Neurology: Clinical Practice, 3(6), 519-526.
  • O’Shea, J., Johansen-Berg, H., Trief, D., Göbel, S., & Rushworth, M. F. S. (2007). Functionally specific reorganization in human premotor cortex. Neuron, 54(3), 479-490.