Does vibrotactile stimulation of the auricular vagus nerve enhance working memory? A behavioral and physiological investigation.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Working memory is essential to a wide range of cognitive functions and activities. Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) is a promising method to improve working memory performance. However, the feasibility and scalability of electrical stimulation are constrained by several limitations, such as auricular discomfort and inconsistent electrical contact.

Objective

We aimed to develop a novel and practical method, vibrotactile taVNS, to improve working memory. Further, we investigated its effects on arousal, measured by skin conductance and pupil diameter.

Method

This study included 20 healthy participants. Behavioral response, skin conductance, and eye tracking data were concurrently recorded while the participants performed N-back tasks un

SUBMITTER: Tan G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11268363 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Mar-Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature