Neurology - Research & Surgery

Neurology - Research & Surgery

Open Access
ISSN: 2641-4333
Original Research Article

Closed-loop EEG-synchronized Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation: Advancing State-dependent Neuromodulation Toward Clinical Translation

Authors: Krista Casazza, Slav Danev, Jonathan RT Lakey.

DOI: 10.33425/2641-4333.1093


Abstract

Conventional transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is delivered independent of ongoing brain activity, despite strong evidence that cortical excitability fluctuates with endogenous oscillatory dynamics. The objective of this review is to synthesize current evidence on electroencephalography (EEG)-synchronized TMS and evaluate its potential as a clinically translatable, state-dependent neuromodulation strategy. We integrate findings from experimental, technical, and early clinical studies of real-time EEG-triggered TMS, focusing on phase-specific stimulation, system latency, and closed-loop control architectures. EEG-synchronized TMS enables phase-dependent modulation of cortical excitability and plasticity, with improved consistency compared to open-loop protocols. Real-time systems require sub-100 ms latency and precise phase estimation, yet remain constrained by signal-to-noise limitations and TMS-induced artifacts. Emerging adaptive and machine learning–driven systems demonstrate feasibility for individualized neuromodulation. Closed-loop EEG- TMS represents a promising advance toward precision neuromodulation, with potential to enhance therapeutic efficacy in neuropsychiatric disorders. Standardization, artifact mitigation, and scalable system design remain critical barriers to widespread clinical adoption.

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Citation: Krista Casazza, Slav Danev, Jonathan RT Lakey. Closed-loop EEG-synchronized Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation: Advancing State-dependent Neuromodulation Toward Clinical Translation. 2026; 9(2). DOI: 10.33425/2641-4333.1093
Editor-in-Chief
Inaki Arrotegui
Inaki Arrotegui
Department of Neurosurgery | Zaragoza University

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Journal Metrics
Impact Factor 1.2*
Acceptance Rate 80%
Time to first decision 6-10 Days
Submission to acceptance 12-15 Days