4 - An In-Depth Exploration of Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR): A Comprehensive Systematic Review

Poster Board Number: 4
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Co-authors:

Jessica Ortega-Balderas - Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon; Rodrigo Elizondo-Omaña, MD, PhD - Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon; Xavier Quiroz-Perales - Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon; Santos Guzman-Lopez - Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon

Abstract Body : Background

Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) represents a nuanced sensory phenomenon characterized by both physiological and psychosocial elements, offering potential therapeutic benefits. This systematic review seeks to consolidate and analyze the objective parameters and potential advantages associated with ASMR consumption.



Methods

Utilizing the PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a thorough search across Scopus, Web of Science, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Google Scholar. Registration on PROSPERO with the code CRD42021228070 was undertaken. Studies featuring ASMR interventions or comparisons with control groups were selected, with a focus on gathering data such as vital signs, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) assessments, and Electroencephalography (EEG) recordings.



Results

Incorporating 28 studies, 27 involving healthy participants and one involving individuals with depression/insomnia, our analysis revealed a prevalence of incomplete data across several studies. Specific MRI and EEG patterns were identified, including alterations in the nucleus accumbens, dorsal anterior cingulate gyrus, insula, and inferior frontal gyrus. Functional connectivity reductions were observed between the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and posterior cingulate cortex, as well as diminished connectivity in the left precuneus and default mode network. EEG results displayed increased alpha power in the left frontal, left parietal, and right parietal regions, along with heightened gamma power in sensorimotor areas. Conversely, reduced delta band power in the right frontal region, decreased alpha power in the occipital region, and increased alpha and gamma power in the central areas were noted.



Conclusions

The heterogeneous nature of ASMR intervention and control designs, varied assessment questionnaires, inconsistent risk of bias among studies, limited ethnic diversity in participant samples, and a reliance on predominantly subjective self-reported sensations collectively contribute to the challenge of generalizing the observed benefits and neurological components.