Closed-loop BCI-VR Integration: A Paradigm Shift in Precision Neuromodulation for specific

Chunyan Wu

doi:10.54254/2755-2721/2025.GL28779

Applied and Computational EngineeringOpen access

Closed-loop BCI-VR Integration: A Paradigm Shift in Precision Neuromodulation for specific

Research Article

Open Access

Closed-loop BCI-VR Integration: A Paradigm Shift in Precision Neuromodulation for specific

Chunyan Wu ^1*

¹ Jiangsu Tianyi High School

^*Corresponding author: chunyanwu261@gmail.com

Published on 28 October 2025

ACE Vol.201

ISSN (Print): 2755-273X

ISSN (Online): 2755-2721

ISBN (Print): 978-1-80590-493-9

ISBN (Online): 978-1-80590-494-6

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Abstract

Specific phobia is one of the most common anxiety disorders, with a global lifetime prevalence of approximately 7.4%. Existing treatments such as exposure therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy are effective but often limited by high dropout rates, subjective evaluation, and constrained real-world applicability. This paper introduces a novel closed-loop brain–computer interface (BCI) and virtual reality (VR) integrated framework for precision neuromodulation in the treatment of specific phobias. The system utilizes real-time Electroencephalography (EEG) decoding to dynamically adjust immersive VR exposure scenarios based on individual physiological responses. Clinical evaluations involving patients with acrophobia and claustrophobia demonstrated significant reductions in subjective fear ratings and physiological arousal, with over 86% of participants showing improved adaptive responses. These results indicate that the BCI-VR closed-loop system enables quantifiable, personalized, and scalable intervention, offering a promising paradigm shift toward more accessible and effective phobia treatment. Further development may facilitate remote therapy applications and enhance treatment adherence through automated and adaptive neuromodulation.

Keywords:

BCI, Virtual reality, Specific phobia, EEG

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