tDCS for BPD: Can Brain Stimulation Reduce Symptoms?

Author Names:

Jacopo Lisoni , Paola Miotto , Stefano Barlati , Stefano Calza , Alessandra Crescini, Giacomo Deste, Emilio Sacchetti, Antonio Vita

Published Date: September 2020

Source: Psychiatry Research

Abstract:

This pilot study investigates the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on core symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), including impulsivity, aggression, and affective dysregulation. The study used a randomized, double-blind design with 15 sessions of tDCS targeting the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) at 2 mA. Results showed significant reductions in impulsivity and aggression in the active-tDCS group compared to the sham-tDCS group, suggesting the potential benefits of tDCS for managing BPD symptoms.

Key Concepts:

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): A mental health disorder characterized by unstable moods, behaviour, and relationships.
tDCS (Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation): A non-invasive brain stimulation technique using a low electric current to modulate neuronal activity.
DLPFC (Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex): A region of the brain involved in executive functions and impulse control.
Literature Review: Previous studies have indicated that tDCS can modulate brain activity and potentially improve symptoms in various mental health disorders, providing a basis for its application in BPD.

Procedure Highlight - Research Methodology:

Participants: Patients diagnosed with BPD were randomly assigned to receive either active-tDCS or sham-tDCS.
Study Design: Randomized, double-blind, controlled pilot study.
Data Collection: Participants received 15 sessions of tDCS, with measures of impulsivity, aggression, affective dysregulation, decision-making processes, and substance craving collected before and after treatment.
Analysis: Statistical analyses compared changes in core symptoms between the active-tDCS and sham-tDCS groups.

Results - Findings of Research:

The study found that tDCS significantly reduced impulsivity and aggression in the active-tDCS group. Improvements in affective dysregulation and reductions in anxiety and depressive symptoms were observed in both groups. Still, only the active-tDCS group showed reduced craving intensity—the active current marginally influenced decision-making processes.

Discussion and Conclusion:

The findings suggest that bilateral tDCS targeting the right DLPFC with anodal stimulation can improve core symptoms of BPD, particularly impulsivity and aggression. This improvement is likely due to the restoration of prefrontal activity. The study highlights tDCS as a potential tool for managing BPD symptoms and preventing self-harming behaviours. Further research is needed to explore long-term effects and optimize treatment protocols.

Link to Original Paper:

Change in Core Symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder by tDCS: A Pilot Study

Author Information:

• Jacopo Lisoni: Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy

• Paola Miotto: Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy

• Stefano Barlati: Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy; Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Italy

• Stefano Calza: Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Italy

• Alessandra Crescini: Department of Mental Health, ASST Valcamonica, Italy

• Giacomo Deste: Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy

• Emilio Sacchetti: Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Italy

• Antonio Vita: Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy; Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Italy

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