Anodal tDCS over Wernicke&apos

Background: Wernicke's area is a key component of the cortical language network, and it is functionally related to the comprehension of oral and written language. In addition to its main role in the perception of language, some other functions related to verbal learning also seem to involve...

Full description

Bibliographic Details
Authors: Rivera Urbina, Guadalupe Nathzidy, Fernanda, María, Nitsche, Michael A., Molero Chamizo, Andrés
Format: article
Publication Date:2019
Country:España
Institution:Universidad de Huelva (UHU)
Repository:Arias Montano. Repositorio Institucional de la Universidad de Huelva
Language:English
OAI Identifier:oai:ariasmontano.uhu.es:10272/23629
Online Access:https://hdl.handle.net/10272/23629
Access Level:Open access
Keyword:Anodal tDCS
Stimulation intensities
Verbal learning
Verbal memory
Wernicke’s area
61 Psicología
Description
Summary:Background: Wernicke's area is a key component of the cortical language network, and it is functionally related to the comprehension of oral and written language. In addition to its main role in the perception of language, some other functions related to verbal learning also seem to involve the activity of this cortical region. It is unknown whether different degrees of neuromodulation on this area determine its effect on word learning. Objective: We aimed to analyze the influence of the application of anodal transcranial DC stimulation (tDCS) over Wernicke's area at two different intensities on word learning. Method: We compared the effect of anodal tDCS at an intensity of 0.5 mA and 1.5 mA with sham tDCS, separately in different groups, on performance in a word learning and recall task. Results: The results show that 1.5 mA anodal tDCS improved performance. The number of words learned in this condition was higher compared with stimulation at 0.5 mA current strength and sham stimulation. Furthermore, stimulation with 1.5 mA specifically prevented the interference effect over word learning, compared to the other two tDCS conditions. Conclusions: These results show an intensity-dependent effect of anodal tDCS on verbal memory formation. These findings are discussed in the context of the various functions of Wernicke's area and the ability of tDCS to modulate the activity and functionality of this cortical area at different intensities.