Enhancing semantic cognition on Japanese two-Kanji words using transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)

Abstract

Recognizing meanings in various things or events is one of the central abilities in human higher cognitive functions. We examined whether the ability to access meanings of Japanese two-Kanji words can be improved by enhancing neural activity in the left anterior temporal lobe (ATL) in volunteers, using anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). The results showed enhanced accuracy of processing synonymous word pairs while the participant was receiving the stimulation. This effect was especially significant for high difficulty items, defined by our pilot data. The current finding demonstrates the causal relationship between ATL and semantic cognition and suggests possible application of tDCS in clinical practise to alleviate semantic impairments caused by neurological disorders.