Perspectives on Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) and Its Potential Integration With Nuclear Medicine as a Therapeutic Approach

Suman Pradhan; Subhasish  Chatterjee; Mousumi Saha

doi:10.62177/apjcmr.v2i1.1025

Authors

Suman Pradhan Maharishi Markandeshwar Institute of Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation, Maharishi Markandeshwar
Subhasish Chatterjee Maharishi Markandeshwar Institute of Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation, Maharishi Markandeshwar
Mousumi Saha Maharishi Markandeshwar Institute of Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation, Maharishi Markandeshwar

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.62177/apjcmr.v2i1.1025

Keywords:

Depression, Nuclear Medicine, Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation, Cortical Excitability, Neuronal Plasticity, Tomography

Abstract

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive technique that modifies cortical excitability and induces neuroplasticity using low-intensity electrical currents. Nuclear medicine technologies like positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) can quantify cerebral metabolism and other dynamics. Evidence suggests that combining tDCS with these imaging methods enhances understanding and outcomes for neurological and psychiatric conditions. This review highlights how nuclear medicine can objectively characterize tDCS effects, map network modulation, and identify predictive biomarkers. PET and SPECT indicate changes in glucose metabolism and neurotransmitter activity post-tDCS, demonstrating their value in validation. While the co-application of these methodologies is still in conceptual stages, their integration may advance precision neuromodulation and inform rehabilitation strategies.

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References

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