Objective: To describe the electroencephalographic activity of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) during a retro-cue working memory task under high- and low-frequency stimulation in patients with deep brain stimulation (DBS) for Parkinson’s disease.

Background: Working memory, essential for temporary information storage and processing, relies on neural circuits involving both cortical and subcortical structures. Among these, the subthalamic nucleus (STN) has gained prominence due to its role in motor, cognitive, and emotional functions. The STN is a key surgical target for deep brain stimulation (DBS), a widely used therapy for Parkinson’s disease. While DBS is effective in reducing motor symptoms, its impact on cognitive functions, including working memory, remains an active area of research.

This study aims to investigate electroencephalographic activity during a retro-cue working memory task in patients with bilateral STN-DBS while alternating between high- and low-frequency stimulation.

Method: Fifteen patients with Parkinson’s disease, bilaterally implanted with STN-DBS and without cognitive impairment, will perform a retro-cue working memory task. The task consists of a training phase and an experimental phase, including encoding, initial retention, retro-cue, final retention, and retrieval stages. Patients will be tested under two stimulation conditions: an initial high-frequency setting (150 Hz) followed by a low-frequency setting (8 Hz). Cortical electroencephalographic (EEG) activity will be recorded throughout the task.

For data analysis, wavelet transform will be used to calculate spectral power, and time-frequency analysis will be performed to assess changes in neural synchronization between alpha and theta frequencies, exploring communication between the STN and frontoparietal regions.

Results: We hypothesize that low-frequency stimulation (8 Hz) will modulate theta and alpha power, frequencies associated with cognitive processes and working memory retention, leading to improved task performance

Conclusion: This study has the potential to provide insights into alternative DBS applications to enhance cognitive processes, not only in working memory but also in attention and executive functions.

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MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/role-of-the-subthalamic-nucleus-in-working-memory-in-patients-with-deep-brain-stimulation-for-parkinsons-disease-protocol/