# Probing network-specific cortical connectivity by combining multifocal transcranial magnetic stimulation with electroencephalography

> **NIH NIH K01** · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · 2024 · $182,528

## Abstract

Abstract
Numerous studies show that mental health conditions are linked to abnormal activity in specific brain networks.
In major depressive disorder (MDD) the frontoparietal network (FPN) experiences reduced activity and disrupted
connectivity, closely tied to clinical symptoms. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) has gained FDA
approval as a non-invasive, effective alternative for drug resistant MDD patients. While repetitive TMS (rTMS)
administered to dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DFPLC) using a single coil alleviates depressive symptoms, it fails
to restore the global connectivity of the FPN. Therefore, this proposal leverages the use of our recently developed
multichannel TMS (mTMS) array system combined with electroencephalography (EEG) to simultaneously
modulate and record activity across multiple nodes of a cortical network. To implement network-specific multifocal
TMS for neuropsychiatric disorders, several technical aspects need to be further developed. The network
subregion targets need to be identified for each individual and here we propose to use combined functional and
structural connectivity measures obtained from Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) data for maximal spatial
specificity. We use computational methods to determine the best possible combination of all coil elements in the
array to stimulate the network nodes, while minimizing the effects elsewhere. We will utilize a whole-head TMS
compatible EEG system to quantify the changes in functional connectivity concurrently with the multifocal
stimulation of different network subregions. The goals of this project include optimizing the targeting of brain
subregions within the Frontoparietal Network (FPN) and Sensorimotor Network (SMN), validated through
structural and functional imaging techniques. By investigating the effects of bifocal stimulation on network
connectivity, particularly focusing on the connectivity changes in alpha/theta synchronization between the
DLPFC and Posterior Parietal Cortex (PPC), the project aims to advance our understanding of network-level
brain connectivity. The anticipated impact is to improve our understanding of network-level brain dysfunctions
and to potentially develop more effective TMS therapies for neuropsychiatric disorders.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 11031802
- **Project number:** 1K01MH138823-01
- **Recipient organization:** MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL
- **Principal Investigator:** Mohammad Daneshzand
- **Activity code:** K01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $182,528
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2024-09-01 → 2028-08-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/11031802

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 11031802, Probing network-specific cortical connectivity by combining multifocal transcranial magnetic stimulation with electroencephalography (1K01MH138823-01). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-25 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/11031802. Licensed CC0.

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