Alpha wave (individual alpha frequency) (IAF)

Alpha waves are neural oscillations in the 8–12 Hz range observed predominantly over parieto-occipital regions during relaxed wakefulness. The individual peak within this band—known as the individual or peak alpha frequency—varies across people and changes with age. Alpha rhythms are generated by synchronous neuronal activity involving both cortical and thalamic circuits but are most prominent in superficial cortical layers. They play roles in inhibiting unused brain areas during rest, coordinating network communication for attention and working memory tasks, and regulating transitions between wakefulness and sleep. While alterations in individual alpha frequency have been associated with aging-related cognitive decline and certain neurological conditions, "brain oscillatory activity at individual alpha frequency" refers to an electrophysiological phenomenon rather than a discrete molecular target suitable for drug development or direct therapeutic intervention.

Other names

Alpha rhythmBerger's waveIndividual alpha frequency (IAF)Peak alpha frequency (PAF)