Multisine frequency modulation of intra-epidermal electric pulse sequences: A novel tool to study nociceptive processing

A sustained sensory stimulus with a periodic variation of intensity creates an electrophysiological brain response at associated frequencies, referred to as the steady-state evoked potential (SSEP). The SSEPs elicited by stimulation nociceptors in skin may represent activity network that is primarily involved nociceptive processing. Exploring behavior this could lead valuable insights regarding pathway from pain perception. We present method directly modulate pulse rate afferents multisine waveform through intra-epidermal electric stimulation. technique was demonstrated healthy volunteers. Each subject stimulated using sequence modulated 3, 7 and 13 Hz. EEG analyzed for presence base frequencies (sub)harmonics. Topographies showed significant central contralateral SSEP responses Hz respectively 7, 4 3 out 9 participants included analysis. As such, we found frequency can generate SSEPs. possibility stimulate system pulses offers novel opportunities study temporal dynamics