Why Do We Feel That Way: Elucidating the Neural Mechanisms Underlying Emotion Perception and Enhancing a Noninvasive Brain Stimulation Intervention.

INSTITUTION: Cognitive Intelligence and Precision Healthcare Research Center at National Central University

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR: Chi-Hung Juan

CO-INVESTIGATORS: Cheng-Ta Li (National Central University) and Wei-Kuang Liang (National Central University)

REGION: Taiwan 

Overview:

This project aims to investigate the nature of emotion consciousness and develop potential methods to benefit individuals with conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and autism.

Abstract: 

This project aims to investigate the nature of emotion consciousness and to develop potential methods for neuromodulation in the context of recognizing emotions from facial expressions. The project consists of three stages: a behavioral and electroencephalogram (EEG) study to identify the dynamic neural connectivity involved in emotion perception, a noninvasive electrical brain stimulation (NIBS) study to examine the causal role of cortical involvement in emotion perception, and the development of an individualized NIBS protocol to reduce bias in emotion perception. The researchers will analyze EEG signals using Holo-Hilbert Spectral Analysis to uncover the dynamic interactions between brain regions and incorporate these findings into NIBS studies. The overall goal is to establish a comprehensive psychological and neural model of emotion perception, identify biomarkers of biased interpretation, and develop an EEG-guided NIBS system to assist individuals in modulating their emotion perception. The results of this project have the potential to benefit individuals with conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and autism by alleviating emotional symptoms and promoting appropriate emotional experiences.