The precuneus, a key hub of the default mode network (DMN), plays a vital role in core cognitive functions, including episodic memory retrieval, self-awareness, and visuospatial imagery. Given its significance, modulating this region holds potential for addressing cognitive dysfunction. Real-time fMRI neurofeedback training (rtfMRI-NFT) offers a promising method for individuals to self-regulate brain activity. While rtfMRI-NFT has demonstrated success across various brain regions, its application and effects on the precuneus remain largely unexplored. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility of rtfMRI-NFT, which modulated precuneus activity, and explore its effects on the brain network connectivity.
Healthy participants (N=20, aged 20-30) were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (n=10) or a control group (n=10). The experimental group received real-time feedback of the precuneus BOLD signal displayed on a visual interface, while the control group received a random signal. Both groups underwent six sessions, each consisting of six 6-minute down-regulation training blocks. Three questionnaires, Beck depression inventory-II (BDI-II), Beck anxiety inventory (BAI), and Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI), were conducted before and after rtfMRI-NFT to evaluate the possible side effects.
The experimental group successfully modulated their precuneus activity, showing a significant decrease in BOLD signal that was not observed in the control group. Furthermore, functional connectivity analysis revealed a significant reduction in connectivity between the precuneus and other DMN regions (e.g., posterior cingulate cortex, medial prefrontal cortex, and middle temporal gyrus) in the experimental group. No significant changes in scores were found in the questionnaires before and after rtfMRI-NFT. These findings confirm the feasibility of our rtfMRI-NFT that modulates the precuneus activity and brain network connectivity, offering a new direction for future interventions targeting DMN-related dysfunction.