Using Brain-Computer Interfaces to Induce Neural Plasticity and Restore Function

Author(s): 
Moritz Grosse-Wentrup
Donatella Mattia
Karim G. Oweiss
Publication File: 
Abstract: 

 

Analyzing neural signals and providing feedback in real-time is one of the core characteristics of a brain-computer interface (BCI). As this feature may be employed to induce neural plasticity, utilizing BCI-technology for therapeutic purposes is increasingly gaining popularity in the BCI-community. In this review, we discuss the state-of-the-art of research on this topic, address the principles of and challenges in inducing neural plasticity by means of a BCI, and delineate the problems of study design and outcome evaluation arising in this context. The review concludes with a list of open questions and recommendations for future research in this field.

Year: 
2011-04
Conference/Journal Name: 
Journal of Neural Engineering