Frequency-dependent cortical plasticity via GABA modulation

Gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the human brain and is thought to underlie plasticity processes. We tested the effect of repetitive tactile stimulation using two driving frequencies on GABA concentration using functional magnetic resonance spectroscopy (fMRS) and psychophysics testing. We were able to detect changes within a single scan session at 3 Tesla (3T) and relate these to well-established behavioural markers of plastic change demonstrating the utility of fMRS as a novel tool to understand the mechanisms of plasticity and the efficacy of therapeutic treatments.