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The following is a summary of “Effect of transcranial direct current stimulation and inhibitory control training on depression and anxiety among post-stroke individuals,” published in the January 2025 issue of Neurology by Kazinczi et al.
Fronto-parietal brain networks and cognitive control play key roles in mood disorders. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and computer-based cognitive training aid post-stroke rehabilitation.
Researchers conducted a prospective study to examine the combined effects of computer-based inhibitory control training (ICCT) and anodal tDCS on post-stroke depression and anxiety.
They randomly assigned 35 participants to three groups: active tDCS (A), sham tDCS with ICCT (T), or active tDCS with ICCT (AT) for 10 days. Primary outcomes were measured using the beck depression inventory (BDI), Hamilton depression rating scale (HAM-D), and Spielberger’s state-trait anxiety inventory (STAI-S/T). Statistical analysis included mixed-model analysis of variance and supplementary Bayesian analysis.
The results showed that the AT group significantly improved BDI scores (P < .001), with no significant effects on HAM-D, STAI-T, or STAI-S.
Investigators found that the combination of tDCS and ICCT reduced depressive symptoms, with no significant effects from either treatment alone. Further studies are needed to explore the mechanisms of these synergistic effects in post-stroke mood disorders.
Source: bmcneurol.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12883-025-04042-6
