Evidence For Frequency-Dependent Cortical Plasticity In The Human Brain

Significance We extend the concept of frequency-dependent plasticity, thus far used to describe synaptic selective adaptation in response to stimulation at different frequencies, to the level of cortical networks. We demonstrate selective changes in perception, functional topography, and connectivity of the primary somatosensory cortex following tactile stimulation at different frequencies. Simulation of a network of oscillators incorporating Hebbian learning reproduced these changes and confirmed the influence of intrinsic cortical resonance on plasticity. We thus show that frequency-dependent plasticity extends to the cortical level and is influenced by cortical resonance, which is of potential importance for optimization of therapeutic stimulation approaches to augment learning and memory.