Modulating Stress-Reactivity by Real-Time Multimodal Functional Neuroimaging Based Neurofeedback

The overall goal of the outlined study is to establish a Real-Time (RT) functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) Neurofeedback (NF) (RT-fMRI-NF) protocol aiming at modulating neural, endocrine, and subjective reactivity to psychosocial stress.

The overall goal of the outlined study is to establish an RT-fMRI-NF protocol aiming at modulating neural, endocrine, and subjective reactivity to psychosocial stress. More specifically, the investigators pursue the following goals: a) to evaluate whether neural and subjective stress-reactivity can be modified by training volitional control over targeted brain activity by means of RT-fMRI-NF; b) to evaluate whether neuromodulation by means of RT-fMRI-NF can be used as a new way to modulate hormone-release into the periphery; and c) to evaluate whether the efficacy of neuromodulation by RT-fMRI-NF can also be reflected on EEG data as well as the autonomic nervous system (ANS) measured by heart rate variability (HRV).

Neurofeedback, Stress, fMRI, Real-time fMRI Neurofeedback, Anterior cingulate cortex, Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, Cortisol, EEG, Heart rate variability, Blood pressure, Simultaneous EEG/fMRI

Blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) signal assessed via functional magnetic resonance imaging, expressed in relative BOLD signal intensity

Inclusion Criteria: Sufficient spoken and written knowledge of English Right-handedness Ability to participate in study procedures Exclusion Criteria: Present or past psychological or psychiatric therapy Major or unstable general medical conditions Presence of cardiovascular disease Current intake of any medication interfering hormonal assessments History of major cerebral injury Medical MRI contraindication