Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Articles tagged with Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Scientists finally see inside the ‘black box’ of depression treatment
Lesions as a window into cause: a psychiatrist bets that circuits, not regions, explain psychiatric disorders
Gonçalo Cotovio uses lesion network mapping to identify the circuits responsible for psychiatric symptoms, aiming to develop personalized brain stimulation treatments. His work has produced striking findings in mania and obsessive-compulsive disorder, with ambitions to extend to disordered feeding behavior.
UT Health San Antonio researchers report breakthrough findings significantly reducing symptoms for combat PTSD victims
Researchers at UT Health San Antonio have made a significant breakthrough in treating combat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) by adding navigated TMS to psychotherapy, showing an 85% reduction in symptoms. The study used a patented MRI-guided, robotic-controlled form of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), known as navigated T...
Targeting a deep brain region without surgery or medication
Researchers have demonstrated that noninvasive brain stimulation can alter the activity of the hippocampus, a critical deep brain region involved in emotion and memory. Personalizing the stimulation site using a patient's unique brain connectivity pathway increases the neuromodulation effect.
A depression treatment that once took eight weeks may work just as well in one
Researchers found that a condensed brain stimulation therapy, known as '5x5' TMS, produced comparable results to the standard six-week course of treatment. Patients who showed little improvement immediately after finishing their five-day course still benefited significantly in the weeks that followed.
Exploring how age influences social preferences
Researchers discovered that while older rats were as social as younger ones, a subpopulation preferred familiar peers. Altering neural communication reversed this preference, enhancing approach towards new peers. This suggests a distinct neural system underlying aging-related social behavior.
Study revealed brain stimulation may improve attention but also heighten threat sensitivity in individuals with anxious depression
A new study found that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can enhance task engagement and activation of brain regions associated with executive function in individuals with comorbid anxiety and depression. However, it unexpectedly heightened sensitivity to threats, including increased eyeblink startle response under conditi...
Big data-driven brain stimulation strategy offers new hope for personalized depression treatment
Researchers developed an individualized TMS targeting algorithm using large-scale brain imaging data to enhance treatment outcomes in depression. This approach, called MDD big data-guided individualized TMS targeting algorithm, produced targets more closely associated with symptom improvement.
Big data-driven brain stimulation strategy offers new hope for personalized depression treatment
A new algorithm integrates large-scale group-level statistical maps with individual brain data to identify optimal TMS targets and predict patient outcomes. This approach has the potential to revolutionize precision psychiatry by providing more effective personalized treatments for depression.
Supporting cognitive flexibility in autistic individuals
Researchers found that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can alleviate some autistic behaviors and improve mental flexibility by reducing neural rigidity. The study's results provide a biological explanation for the coexistence of diverse behavioral traits in ASD.
Focused ultrasound halts growth of debilitating brain lesions
A new technique using focused sound waves and microbubbles has shown great promise in treating debilitating brain lesions called cerebral cavernous malformations. The approach has halted the growth of lesions almost entirely, offering a potential paradigm shift in treatment.
Study reveals promising insights on treatment to improve speech after a stroke
Researchers at the University of Calgary investigate the effectiveness of transcranial magnetic stimulation combined with intensive speech therapy for treating poststroke aphasia. The study found significant improvements in speech, confidence, and mood among participants, offering new hope for those affected by stroke.
New USC study identifies key brain networks behind post-stroke urinary incontinence
A new USC-led study using fMRI reveals the neural mechanisms that contribute to urinary incontinence in stroke survivors. The research found significant differences in brain activity during voluntary versus involuntary bladder contractions, presenting potential pathways for targeted therapies.
Patients with mental health conditions would favour non-invasive interventions over medication, finds a new survey
A new survey found that patients with neurological and mental health disorders prefer non-invasive neuromodulation interventions over current medications. The study, published in Scientific Reports, suggests that providing accurate information to patients improves their perception of these treatments.
Research spotlight: Mapping lesions that cause psychosis to a human brain circuit and proposed stimulation target
Studies identified 153 cases of psychosis caused by brain lesions, which connected to a common circuit in the hippocampus. The circuit, including the rostromedial prefrontal cortex, is a promising target for transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy, potentially improving symptoms in patients with schizophrenia.
Electroencephalography may help guide treatments for language disorders
Researchers found a high agreement between EEG and fMRI in identifying brain regions activated during language tasks. EEG-guided tDCS improved picture-naming speed in participants, suggesting its potential for innovative therapies.
U of M Medical School research team receives $1.2M grant to study Tourette syndrome treatment
A research team from the University of Minnesota Medical School received a $1.2 million grant to study the use of TMS in addition to CBIT as a treatment for children with Tourette syndrome. The trial found that this new treatment improved brain circuits involved in tics, and the researchers hope it could lead to a future treatment option.
Common brain network links brain atrophy patterns seen in schizophrenia
A new study has identified a specific connectivity pattern of brain atrophy in schizophrenia, distinct from brain networks associated with other psychiatric disorders. The findings suggest that this network may be a core characteristic of schizophrenia and could inform treatment plans.
Can magnetic pulses aimed at the brain treat insomnia?
A team led by Dr. William Killgore is investigating a non-invasive treatment for insomnia using magnetic pulses that suppress the default mode network in the brain. Preliminary findings suggest that this approach can improve sleep quality in individuals with chronic insomnia.
Magnetic field applied to both sides of brain shows rapid improvement for depression
A magnetic field applied to both sides of the brain has been shown to rapidly treat depression in patients who have not responded to standard treatments. The therapy, known as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), targets two areas of the brain implicated in depression and corrects imbalances in key processes.
Tiny magnetic discs offer remote brain stimulation without transgenes
Scientists have developed novel magnetic nanodiscs that can remotely stimulate parts of the brain, potentially treating neurological and psychiatric conditions. The devices were injected into specific brain regions in mice and triggered by a weak electromagnet, demonstrating precise control over neural activity.
Ultrasound technology can be used to boost mindfulness, study finds
Researchers used low-intensity ultrasound to target and alter the default mode network of the brain, reducing connectivity and enhancing mindfulness. The technique, called transcranial-focused ultrasound (TFUS), can induce meaningful effects with just five minutes of stimulation.
New form of repetitive magnetic brain stimulation reduces treatment time for bipolar disorder
A new potential therapy for depressed patients with bipolar disorder has emerged, significantly shortening treatment time from four to six weeks. Accelerated intermittent theta burst stimulation (aiTBS) reduced treatment to just five days, yielding substantial decreases in depressive symptoms.
Personalized magnetic stimulation may help in treating depression
Researchers from University of Helsinki and Stanford University developed more precise methods for transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) targeting the brain's electrical responses. The new methods aim to improve treatment outcomes for patients with depression who do not respond to medication or antidepressants.
Differential effects in the subsystems of the salience network in schizophrenia
This study analyzed resting state fMRI data to investigate salience network disruptions in schizophrenia. The analysis revealed weaker dorsal salience network connectivity and increased ventral salience network connectivity in patients.
Researchers identify targets in the brain to modulate heart rate and treat depressive disorders
A new study suggests that stimulating specific areas of the brain can affect heart rate in individuals with depressive disorders. The researchers found high accuracy in identifying optimal treatment spots using heart rate measurements during brain stimulation.
A new study shows how neurochemicals affect fMRI readings
Researchers have discovered that neurochemicals influence neural activity, blood flow, and fMRI measurements. The study found that certain neurochemicals can cause constrictions in blood vessels, leading to negative fMRI signals.
Doctors can now watch spinal cord activity during surgery
Scientists have developed fUSI technology that enables clinicians to see and map the spinal cord's response to treatments in real-time. This innovation offers improved monitoring of blood flow changes, potentially increasing treatment success rates and optimizing pain relief for patients.
Revolutionary brain stimulation technique shows promise for treating brain disorders
A new brain stimulation technique called Patterned Low-Intensity Low-Frequency Ultrasound (LILFUS) has been developed by researchers at the Institute for Basic Science. This non-invasive method uses ultrasound to induce long-lasting changes in brain function and has shown promise in treating various neurological disorders.
Releasing “brakes” in the brain
A team of researchers used deep brain stimulation to localize disrupted neural pathways in patients with Parkinson's disease, dystonia, OCD, and Tourette's syndrome. The study identified specific brain circuits associated with each disorder, revealing overlapping malfunctions that suggest a complex network of brain dysfunctions.
Chinese Medical Journal review explores personalized brain mapping and navigated neuromodulation
Researchers discuss recent advances in brain mapping, emphasizing the need to establish precise neuromodulation paradigms based on individual characteristics. Individualized brain mapping methods have evolved from manual labeling to staining techniques across multiple subjects.
Virginia Tech scientist shows focused ultrasound can reach deep into the brain to relieve pain
Researchers used low-intensity focused ultrasound to target the insula, a brain region associated with pain processing. The study found that participants experienced an average reduction in pain of three-fourths of a point, as well as decreased physical responses to pain-induced stress.
CityU neuroscientists uncover the therapeutic potential of low-dose ionizing radiation for traumatic brain injury and ischemic stroke
Researchers found that low-dose X-ray irradiation reduced lesion size and reversed motor deficits in TBI and ischemic stroke mice, demonstrating its potential as a therapeutic strategy. The treatment also accelerated substantial motor function recovery and promoted brain rewiring after stroke.
Novel MRI technique improves the lasting effects of treatment for severe depression
A new MRI technique has shown that patients with severe depression can experience substantial improvements in symptoms and quality of life for at least six months. The technique uses functional MRI to guide the delivery of magnetic stimulation to specific areas of the brain, reducing variability and increasing effectiveness.
Scientists use high-tech brain stimulation to make people more hypnotizable
Researchers found that less than two minutes of electrical stimulation targeting a precise area of the brain could increase participants' hypnotizability for about one hour. Highly hypnotizable individuals have stronger functional connectivity between the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and dorsal anterior cingulate cortex.,
Evidence early, but emerging, that gamma rhythm stimulation can treat neurological disorders
A growing number of studies have found that non-invasive sensory, electrical, or magnetic stimulation of gamma brain rhythms can reduce Alzheimer's pathology and its consequences. These studies have shown increases in gamma power, brain network connectivity, and improvements in memory, cognition, and sleep.
Can brain stimulation benefit individuals with schizophrenia?
Researchers found that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) improved event-based prospective memory in patients with schizophrenia, but not time-based prospective memory. The study suggests rTMS as a potential therapeutic option for prospective memory impairments in individuals with schizophrenia.
Novel brain stimulation technique shows promise in patients with hard-to-treat depression
A novel brain stimulation technique has shown significant improvement in patients with hard-to-treat depression, with 66% responding to treatment and nearly half achieving acute remission. The study's findings are promising, particularly for patients who have tried other treatments without success.
Heart over head? Stages of the heart’s cycle affect neural responses
Research found that higher cortical excitability is recorded during the systolic phase of the cardiac cycle, suggesting a link between heartbeats and neural processing. This study has implications for treatments of depression and stroke, where TMS pulses stimulate nerve cells.
Study finds possible early predictor of successful transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy for major depression
A new study from UCLA Health researchers demonstrates that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is effective in most patients with major depressive symptoms, starting to alleviate symptoms as quickly as one week. The treatment was found to be associated with a significant response rate of 54% of patients, with early impr...
Perfecting the performance of nerve implants
Nerve damage can lead to severe and long-lasting effects, including depression. Researchers have developed new technology to repair and reconstruct damaged nerves using simple electrical circuitry in implants. This innovation has the potential to benefit people with injuries and neurodegenerative diseases.
Case report shows promising results using transcranial magnetic stimulation for post-stroke ataxia
Researchers describe a groundbreaking case of bilateral TMS treatment for chronic ataxia after hemorrhagic stroke, resulting in significant improvements in walking speed and balance. The treatment showed promise as the patient regained independence in daily activities.
Pupil response may shed light on who responds best to transcranial magnetic stimulation for depression
New studies from UCLA Health found that measuring pupil response to light before TMS treatment correlates with improved depression symptoms. Pupil size reflects activation of the autonomic nervous system, which is negatively impacted in people with depression. Researchers discovered a significant association between baseline pupil cons...
Researchers discover potential treatment for nicotine dependence
A new study suggests that theta-burst transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy can lead to improved self-control, reduced cravings, and less smoking in individuals with nicotine dependence. This treatment targets the brain region responsible for inhibitory control, which is often impaired in smokers.
Redefining treatment for mild cognitive impairment
A new phase II clinical trial will investigate the effectiveness of an accelerated course of transcranial magnetic stimulation in improving symptoms for patients with mild cognitive impairment and depression. The study aims to identify the optimal dose of stimulation needed to improve both depression and thinking difficulties in MCI, w...
Cortical thinning is associated with altered neurotransmission in young adults with a history of heavy drinking since adolescence
Young adults with a history of heavy drinking since adolescence exhibit lower cortical gray matter thickness and altered neurotransmission, according to a recent study. Cortical thinning is associated with increased inhibitory neurotransmission, especially in the frontal and parietal lobes.
New Jersey Health Foundation awards grants to Kessler Foundation to advance research in brain and spinal cord stimulation methods
Two Kessler Foundation scientists will conduct studies on upper extremity exercise after stroke and restoration of cardiovascular function in spinal cord injury populations. Dr. Shenoy Handiru's study combines transcranial electrical stimulation and wearable sensor-based exergaming to improve hand dexterity, while Dr. Einat Engel-Haber...
Accelerated delivery of transcranial magnetic stimulation is safe and effective
A novel approach called theta-burst stimulation (TBS) offers a more convenient and efficient treatment option, reducing time burdens on patients and clinicians. The study concludes that accelerated delivery of TMS is safe and effective in treating MDD.
Stimulating hope: Personalizing treatment options for depression
A new study published in JCI Insight identified a second target for treating depression using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), showing that each target alleviates a different set of symptoms. Patients who had high baseline depression and anxiety measures responded better to standard TMS treatment, while those with low baseline ...
Effects of brain stimulation amenable to conditioning
Scientists used paired-pulse TMS to condition brain responses in a group of 75 people, finding that listening to a tone triggered muscle contraction in the thumb. The study suggests TMS could be used therapeutically to improve mobility in Parkinson's disease patients or treat depression.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation measured cortical inhibition provides insight into interindividual differences in progressive myoclonic epilepsy
A new study has found that abnormality of intracortical inhibition in patients with progressive myoclonic epilepsy type 1 is associated with the magnitude of genetic change. The results suggest that transcranial magnetic stimulation could be useful in assessing patient prognosis and may have use as a marker of GABAergic impairment.
Researchers test promising tech treatment for youth depression
Researchers tested the effectiveness of brain stimulation followed by cognitive exercise for treating Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) in youth. The study found significant changes in brain activity and a reduction in depressive symptoms, suggesting a promising treatment option.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation design goes deeper into brain
A new geometrical-shaped magnet structure enables deep brain stimulation to reach 11 centimeters below the scalp, 1.67 times deeper than conventional methods. This improved design offers more focused stimulation and increased treatment potential for psychiatric diseases like major depression.
Only left inferior frontal gyrus found responsible for action naming
A study by HSE researchers found that only the left inferior frontal gyrus is critically involved in action naming, which could help preserve speech in patients after brain surgery. The study used fMRI and rTMS to stimulate the brain and found that stimulating this region led to more accurate action naming.
USC research reveals key differences in the brains of boys and girls with binge eating disorder
Researchers at USC found significant differences in gray matter density between boys and girls with binge eating disorder, suggesting unique brain structures and potentially different treatments. The study underscores the need to include males in future research on eating disorders.
HSE University researchers caused people to behave less rationally by suppressing activity in specific parts of the brain
Researchers at HSE University used transcranial magnetic stimulation to suppress brain activity in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, leading to test subjects making less rational decisions. The study provides insight into the mechanisms behind gaming addiction and offers a potential new approach to understanding risky choice.
UCalgary researchers supercharge brain stimulation by repurposing an antibiotic
Researchers at UCalgary have shown that the antibiotic D-Cycloserine (DCS) increases the effectiveness of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for people with major depressive disorder. The combination treatment showed significant benefits, including improved depressive symptoms and anxiety levels.
Nanoparticles can improve stroke recovery by enhancing brain stimulation, study shows
Researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University found that brain stimulation combined with a nose spray containing nanoparticles can improve recovery after ischemic stroke. The treatment increased cognitive and motor functions, and weighed more quickly than those treated with TMS alone.
Brain stimulation improves motor skill learning at older age
Researchers found that transcranial brain stimulation can improve accuracy and speed in older adults, facilitating the emergence of efficient motor chunks. The study suggests that this non-invasive technique may restore motor skill acquisition in individuals with diminished learning mechanisms.