Transcranial magnetic stimulation with electroencephalography: methodology, applications for research and cilinics

Combined use of transcranial magnetic stimulation and electroencephalography (TMS-EEG) is a highly informative cutting edge technology which is relevant for fundamental, clinical and  translational research. Unique capabilities of TMS-EEG approach  allow to assess the functional state and connectivity of brain regions  thus opening new prospects for the evaluation of the TMS effects in  non-motor cortical areas. TMS-EEG responses have diagnostic and  prognostic potential for many neurological and mental illnesses.  Simultaneous co-registration of TMS with EEG remains a technically  sophisticated procedure and requires specialized equipment in  conjunction with application of complex data analysis techniques.  This review describes the details of TMS-EEG technique, principles of the experiment design, the shape and the reproducibility of TMS- evoked responses and applications of this promising approach both  in research and in clinics.