Targeted reinforcement of neural oscillatory activity with real-time neuroimaging feedback

- Real-time MEG brain imaging, used in a multi-session training program.
- Specific neural oscillatory components within brain regions of interest were targeted.
- Real-time visual feedback was provided to subjects based on these metrics.
- Subjects demonstrated that targeted neural activity could be modulated with practice.
- Reconsidering MEG brain imaging technique as a therapeutic tool.

Biofeedback and brain-computer interfacing using EEG has been receiving continuous and increasing interest. However, the limited spatial resolution of low-density scalp recordings is a roadblock to the unequivocal monitoring and targeting of neuroanatomical regions and physiological signaling. This latter aspect is pivotal to the actual efficiency of neurofeedback procedures, which are expected to engage the modulation of well-identified components of neural activity within and between predetermined brain regions. Our group has previously contributed to demonstrate the principles of real-time magnetoencephalography (MEG) source imaging. Here we show how the technique was further developed to provide healthy subjects with region-specific neurofeedback to modulate successfully predetermined components of their brain activity in targeted brain regions. Overall, our results positively indicate that neurofeedback based on time-resolved MEG imaging has the potential to become an innovative therapeutic approach in neurology and neuropsychiatry.