Network Synchrony Neurofeedback for Opioid Dependence

Project Summary/Abstract Over the last two decades, our laboratory has characterized adaptive changes in resting state brain network synchrony in substance dependent individuals with long-term (multi-year) abstinence (LTA) from alcohol and drugs. These adaptive changes more than reverse network resting-state synchrony (RSS) differences that are associated with active substance dependence (i.e., increased appetitive drive network RSS and decreased inhibitory control and emotion- regulation network RSS). We have also shown that EEG coherence based indices reflect these same networks in the same individuals. We have recently implemented real-time 64-channel EEG coherence-based network synchrony neurofeedback (NFB) to train the brain to mimic the changes that occur with LTA. This Phase I SBIR effort will provide 12 such NFB sessions over a 8 week period to opioid dependent individuals receiving Sublocade injection Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT). Matched pairs of subjects will be studied with a cross-over design, with half of subjects receiving NFB followed by a 8 week follow-up, and their counterparts being on a 8 week waiting list followed by NFB. The non-NFB intervals allows us to estimate normal RSS changes without NFB and measure the persistence of NFB effects.Project Narrative Our laboratory has characterized the changes in brain network function that occur with multi-year abstinence from alcohol and drugs. 1. Lessening of the compulsive impulse to consume drugs in response to environmental stimuli; 2 Strengthening the individual’s ability to inhibit unwanted behavior; 3 An increased ability to process (especially negative) emotions. We recently implemented real-time 64-channel EEG coherence-based network synchrony neurofeedback (NFB) to train the brain to mimic the changes that occur with multi-year abstinence.