Network-level disruption effects familiar face processing via cortical nodes connected to occipito-limbic and tempora-frontal networks

Familiar face recognition, an integral part of everyday social interactions, depends on the integration of perceptual identity and affective signals, yet the neural dynamics supporting this process remain poorly understood. In this study, continuous theta-burst stimulation (cTBS) was combined with high-density EEG to investigate how targeted inhibition of the occipito-limbic and tempora-frontal networks affects the oscillatory dynamics associated with the recognition of familiar faces. In a within-subject, counterbalanced design, 15 healthy adults completed two sessions in which cTBS was applied to the F8 and O2 electrode sites. Pre- and post-stimulation EEG was recorded during a task presenting familiar, famous, and unfamiliar faces, while delta and theta power responses were measured. Familiarity and closeness of presented faces are asked by 7 likert scores. Inhibiting both the occipito-limbic and tempora-frontal networks produced similar effects on behaviour. The greatest changes were observed for personally familiar faces, moderate effects were noted for famous faces, and no measurable effects occurred for unfamiliar faces. Regarding neural responses, inhibiting the occipito-limbic network at the O2 electrode led to significant reductions in both event-related delta and theta power. In contrast, inhibiting the tempora-frontal network at the F8 electrode resulted in significant reductions only in event-related theta power. The modulations in delta and theta power responses suggest that occipito-limbic networks contribute to affective aspects of face processing, whereas tempora-frontal networks are more strongly involved in identity-related processing.