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Topic starter 02/08/2025 10:46 pm
⚡ Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation (tACS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that uses oscillating electrical currents to influence brain activity—like tuning the brain to a specific rhythm.
🔄 How tACS Works
- Electrodes are placed on the scalp, and a sinusoidal (wave-like) current flows between them.
- Unlike tDCS, which uses constant current, tACS alternates direction—mimicking the brain’s natural oscillations.
- The goal is to entrain or synchronize brainwaves to the frequency of the applied current.
🧠 Why Frequency Matters
Different brain functions are associated with specific oscillation frequencies:
| Frequency Band | Associated Function |
|---|---|
| Delta (1–4 Hz) | Deep sleep |
| Theta (4–8 Hz) | Memory and navigation |
| Alpha (8–12 Hz) | Relaxation and inhibition |
| Beta (13–30 Hz) | Active thinking and movement |
| Gamma (30–100 Hz) | Attention and consciousness |
tACS can target these bands to modulate cognitive or emotional states.
🧪 Applications
- Cognitive Enhancement: Boosts attention, memory, and learning.
- Mental Health: Investigated for depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia.
- Sleep Regulation: Helps align circadian rhythms and improve sleep quality.
- Alzheimer’s Research: Gamma-frequency tACS shows promise in slowing disease progression.
🛠️ Devices & Safety
- Devices are typically portable, with programmable settings for frequency and intensity.
- Common side effects include mild tingling or skin irritation.
- Precision and waveform fidelity are crucial—some advanced stimulators offer clean sinusoidal output even under challenging conditions.
tACS is like giving your brain a rhythmic nudge—helping it harmonize with frequencies that support better function.
