[Abstract] Realistic modeling of transcranial current stimulation: The electric field in the brain

Highlights

• Computational models are required to optimize the electric field in the brain.
• tCS pipelines allow for fast and semi-automatic production of realistic head models.
• In-vivo validation studies corroborate electric field predictions from tCS models.
• tCS modeling could help identify the causes for intra and inter-subject variability.
• Successful application of multi-electrode montages strongly depends on tCS models

Abstract

Computational models of transcranial current stimulation (tCS) derived from MRI predict the electric field distribution in individual brains with reasonable accuracy and should be used to guide the selection of optimal stimulation parameters. Some recent advances that support this claim are: free toolboxes to generate individual head models for electric field calculations, the validation of model predictions in comparison to in-vivomeasurements, and new algorithms to optimize the electric field at the target with multi-electrode stimulation. Electrical impedance tomography may provide subject-specific estimates of the electric conductivity of the scalp and skull, thereby improving the accuracy of the electric field calculations. In the future, electric field models should be coupled with electrophysiological models to predict experimental outcomes.

Graphical abstract

 

via Realistic modeling of transcranial current stimulation: The electric field in the brain – ScienceDirect