Neuromodulation
Articles tagged with Neuromodulation
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.
Genomic Press launches Brain Health, a new peer-reviewed journal of lifelong brain resilience, with inaugural interview featuring Luísa Pinto on glial plasticity
Genomic Press launches Brain Health, a new peer-reviewed journal dedicated to the science of lifelong brain resilience, featuring research on glial plasticity and recovery from depression. The inaugural issue explores the intersection of fields including cognitive reserve, sleep, aging biology, nutritional psychiatry, and social sciences.
Brain-computer interface based on Rice research wins FDA approval for first clinical trial
Motif Neurotech has received FDA approval to begin the first clinical trial of its therapeutic BCI device, DOT, for treatment-resistant depression. The study will test the device's effectiveness in delivering electrical stimulation to brain circuits linked to depression.
Under embargo: Families and friends speak out on electroconvulsive therapy’s silenced risks
A new study reveals that electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) can lead to significant negative impacts on standard of living, personal relationships, and even brain damage. Relatives and friends of ECT patients report long-term effects including memory loss, emotional blunting, and loss of independence.
Softens inside the body? The emergence of ‘transformation electrodes’
A Korean research team developed a spinal cord stimulator that softens upon contact with bodily fluids, mimicking surrounding nerve tissue. The device uses liquid metal and variable stiffness structures to achieve stable signal transmission and reduced costs.
Study identifies gene expression program linked to neurotransmission in the living human brain
Researchers have identified a distinct gene expression program associated with neurotransmission in the living human brain. The study combines molecular data with real-time physiological recordings, revealing a coordinated set of genes whose activity tracks with neuronal signaling.
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...
A soft, wireless implant treats inflammatory bowel disease by tapping into the body’s neural network
Researchers developed a soft, wireless implant that modulates the splenic nerve to restore immune balance in patients with chronic inflammatory diseases. The device showed excellent biocompatibility and reduced inflammation in a rat model of chronic colitis.
Closed-loop brain-body interface: brain and body team up to personalize mental health treatment
Researchers propose a closed-loop system combining peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) with brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) to personalize neuromodulation. This approach aims to address treatment-resistant depression and schizophrenia by dynamically tailoring interventions to individual neural signatures.
Nonsurgical treatment shows promise for targeted seizure control
A nonsurgical approach has been demonstrated to quiet a specific brain circuit in an animal model by delivering engineered gene therapy only to the targeted region. The method uses low-intensity focused ultrasound to open the blood-brain barrier, allowing precise control over brain activity without impacting off-target areas.
Rice and Houston Methodist researchers to study brain-implant interface with Dunn Foundation award
A team of researchers from Rice University and the Houston Methodist Research Institute will study how the brain responds to neural implants. They aim to develop more stable and longer-lasting brain-computer interfaces and neuroprosthetics, which could treat neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and stroke.
Prime time for fiber optics to take a deep dive into brain circuits
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have developed a new fiber-optic device, PRIME, which delivers multi-site, reconfigurable optical stimulation through a single implant. This technology enables manipulation of neural activity deep in the brain and holds promise for understanding complex brain circuits.
Light pills could transform understanding of how the gut controls the body
Scientists have developed ingestible devices that deliver targeted light stimulation directly to the gut, allowing researchers to precisely illuminate specific nerve cells. This technology could reveal new targets for treating conditions like gastroparesis and metabolic diseases.
Study finds key role for non-neural brain cells in processing vision
Researchers found that astrocytes maintain optimal levels of GABA to enable neural groups to process visual information efficiently. Knocking out Gat3 in mice impaired neuron coordination and reduced ensemble activity, highlighting the importance of astrocytic regulation.
BCI robotic hand control reaches new finger-level milestone
Researchers have successfully controlled a dexterous robotic hand using noninvasive EEG-based Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) for individual finger movements. The study demonstrates real-time brain decoding and motor imagery control, paving the way for potential applications beyond basic communication to intricate motor control.
Brain training game offers new hope for drug-free pain management
A new brain training game has shown promise in treating nerve pain, with participants experiencing significant reductions in pain and comparable relief to opioids. The PainWaive technology uses EEG headsets to track brain activity and respond in real time, providing a potential non-invasive alternative for chronic pain management.
On the sidelines no more: New research shows astrocytes are active players in neuromodulation
Astrocytes, once thought to be supporting cells, are active players in neuromodulation, controlling neuronal activity and behavior. The discovery of a biochemical circuit involving ATP and adenosine reveals a slower time scale for modulation compared to neural circuits.
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: PTSD patients show long-term benefits with vagus nerve stimulation
A clinical study found that patients with PTSD showed significant symptom-free periods up to six months after receiving vagus nerve stimulation paired with traditional therapy. The results highlight the potential of this approach in treating treatment-resistant PTSD.
Molecules that fight infection also act on the brain, inducing anxiety or sociability
Researchers found that immune molecule IL-17 influences brain regions to induce either anxiety in the amygdala or sociable behavior in the somatosensory cortex. This discovery highlights the interconnectedness of the immune and nervous systems.
Should I stay or should I go? Brain switchboard found
Researchers have identified three cell types in the median raphe nucleus that control decisions on perseverance, exploration, and disengagement. These findings may help understand neuropsychiatric conditions such as OCD, autism, and major depressive disorder.
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.
Nerve stimulation: the brain is not always listening
A study by TU Wien found that nerve stimulation is more effective when synchronized with the body's natural rhythms, particularly during systole and inspiration. This technology has potential for non-invasive treatment of chronic diseases.
Rice labs tapped for brain research by UK funding agency with multimillion-dollar awards
The Advanced Research + Invention Agency has awarded $84.2 million to Rice researchers to explore and unlock new methods for interfacing with the human brain at the circuit level. The project involves developing a distributed network of minimally invasive implants to stimulate neural circuits with cell-type precision.
Meta-learning of motor skills in the dorsal premotor cortex of the brain
A research group at the University of Tsukuba discovered that the dorsal premotor cortex plays a crucial role in meta-learning for motor skills. The study found that stimulating this region impairs the meta-learning effect on memory forgetting, but not motor learning itself.
Efficient neuro-modulation chips to advance a new era of brain-computer interfaces
Researchers developed an 8-channel neural stimulation chip with exponential waveform output, achieving 98% power efficiency and advanced charge-balancing capabilities. This breakthrough enhances neural modulation and brain-machine interface devices for safer treatments of neurological conditions.
Brain network study reveals clues about dementia’s behavior changes
A recent study found that tau protein buildup disrupts the salience network, a crucial communication network in the brain, leading to behavioral changes. The study used advanced medical imaging to analyze the brains of 128 people with early-stage dementia and showed a strong association between tau disruption and behavioral symptoms.
Latest advances in brain network models for medical applications: A comprehensive review highlights future potential
Recent advances in Brain Network Models (BNMs) have improved simulations of brain activities, understanding neuropathological mechanisms, and predicting disease progression. BNMs integrate structural and functional connectivity data to analyze abnormal network dynamics.
Turning brain cells on using the power of light
University of Rochester researchers have refined a noninvasive method called BL-OG that harnesses light to activate neurons in the brain. The technique has the potential to transform invasive procedures used to treat Parkinson's disease and other neurological conditions by providing a safer, less invasive alternative.
Adhesive cortical device enables artifact-free neuromodulation for closed-loop epilepsy treatment
Researchers developed a shape-morphing cortex-adhesive sensor to monitor brain activity during tFUS stimulation, enabling real-time adjustments and suppressing seizures. The innovative device overcomes challenges in existing cortex-interfacing devices, providing stable and accurate monitoring.
Optimizing electrical stimulation therapies with machine learning
Researchers at Duke University have developed a computer model that simulates nerve responses to electrical stimulation, enabling the efficient design of more effective and targeted neuromodulation therapies. The new tool, called S-MF, runs thousands of times faster than current industry standards without sacrificing accuracy or detail.
Light-activated drugs against neuropathic pain
A team of researchers has developed light-activated compounds that can inhibit nerve signals locally and on demand, offering a potential treatment for neuropathic pain. The compounds, which are activated by amber-colored light, show photopharmacological activity in animal models.
Breakthrough approach enables bidirectional BCI functionality
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have successfully integrated focused ultrasound stimulation into noninvasive BCIs, significantly boosting signal quality and enabling bidirectional brain-computer interfaces. The technology allows individuals to control a cursor or robotic arm using only their thoughts.
Research team progresses to final phase in NIH competition, expanding autonomic neuromodulation applications for spinal stimulation
Kessler Foundation and collaborators win $1 million prize for proof-of-concept study on tablet-type controller StimXS, designed to help individuals with spinal cord injuries manage autonomic functions. The team advances to Phase 3 of the NIH Common Fund's Neuromod Prize competition.
New study reveals breakthrough in understanding brain stimulation therapies
A new study by researchers at the University of Minnesota reveals that non-invasive brain stimulation can change a specific brain mechanism related to human behavior. The technique, called transcranial alternating current stimulation, modulates brain activity by shifting when brain cells are active.
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.
Locusts’ sense of smell boosted with custom-made nanoparticles
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis used specially made nanostructures to enhance the locust's ability to detect odors, boosting neural signals for improved chemical sensing. The team created a biocompatible and biodegradable nanoparticle that converts light to heat, amplifying neural activity.
Center for BrainHealth investigates the impact of auditory beat stimulation on cognition
A recent study published in Cerebral Cortex found that participants exposed to 18-Hz beta binaural beats had significantly higher accuracy and faster response times during comprehension tasks. This suggests that binaural beat stimulation at this frequency may be a potential tool for improving language skills.
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.
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...
Researchers induce brain activation using infrared light-controlled drugs
Scientists have developed a method for controlling brain activity in living organisms using infrared light-controlled drugs. The technique uses mid-infrared light to activate a specific neurotransmitter receptor, providing unparalleled precision in three dimensions.
Scientists explain how the brain encodes lottery values
Researchers at Sainsbury Wellcome Centre find frontal and parietal cortex play key role in encoding value of economic choices when faced with uncertainty. The study provides foundation for understanding neurobiology of risky decisions.
Rice-engineered material can reconnect severed nerves
Researchers have created a magnetoelectric material that can directly stimulate neural tissue, potentially treating neurological disorders and nerve damage. The material generates an electric signal that neurons can detect, overcoming previous limitations.
UTHealth Houston researcher awarded $3.1M NIH grant to study sudden unexpected death in epilepsy
A new NIH grant will help researchers better understand brain respiratory control and develop neuromodulation strategies to prevent Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP). The goal is to identify optimal stimulation paradigms for breathing enhancement during a critical time window after seizures.
Noninvasive modulation of brain hemodynamic and metabolic states by near-infrared light
The study used transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) to stimulate the prefrontal cortex, a region involved in cognitive function. The results showed that tPBM modulated hemodynamic and metabolic activities in a wavelength- and site-specific manner.
Flexible nanoelectrodes can provide fine-grained brain stimulation
Rice University engineers developed ultraflexible nanoelectrodes that can deliver high-resolution stimulation therapy with minimal scarring and degradation. The devices showed precise spatiotemporal stimulus control, enabling the development of new brain stimulation therapies for patients with impaired sensory or motor functions.
Rice U. bioengineering Ph.D. named Schmidt Science Fellow
Joshua Chen, a Rice University doctoral alum, has won the prestigious Schmidt Science Fellowship to pursue research in synthetic biology and wirelessly programmable cell therapies for neurodegenerative diseases.
NYU Abu Dhabi researchers develop the first-ever ingestible electroceutical device to control appetite by hormone modulation
The FLASH system is a non-invasive and precise method to modulate hunger levels and treat metabolic and neurologic diseases. It utilizes electrodes on its surface to deliver electrical stimulation to stomach mucosal tissue, regulating the gut-brain axis.
UTHealth Houston researchers awarded $15M in NIH BRAIN grants to study speech, epilepsy, and dyslexia
Researchers at UTHealth Houston received $15 million in NIH BRAIN grants to study brain processes related to speech, epilepsy, and reading. A new minimally invasive device will be developed to record brain activity during speech, while another project aims to disrupt seizures using neuromodulation.
Study: Seizures can be predicted more than 30 minutes before onset in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy
A study published in NEJM Evidence found that seizures can be predicted at least 35 minutes before onset in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy. This breakthrough discovery has significant implications for developing more effective therapies for this common seizure disorder, which affects over 50 million people globally.
A neuro-chip to manage brain disorders
NeuralTree is a closed-loop neuromodulation system-on-chip that can detect and classify biomarkers from real patient data and animal models of disease in-vivo, leading to high accuracy in symptom prediction. The system boasts 256 input channels, making it highly versatile and scalable.
Deep brain stimulation for Parkinson's disease: new algorithm for the adjustment of stimulation settings developed
A new algorithm developed by researchers at Charité improves motor symptoms comparable to standard of care treatment, increasing efficiency in deep brain stimulation for Parkinson's disease. The study suggests a promising result for imaging-based algorithms to simplify clinical practice and improve therapeutic outcomes.
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.
New study finds distinct brain networks associated with risk and resilience in depression
A new study has identified two distinct brain networks associated with risk and resilience in depression. The salience network is linked to increased depression symptoms, while the default mode network is linked to decreased depression symptoms. These findings may lead to new treatments for depression using neuromodulation therapies.
SpineX demonstrates groundbreaking technology to treat children with cerebral palsy
SpineX's proprietary SCiP TM device demonstrates unparalleled functional improvements in children with cerebral palsy, treating underlying neurological dysfunction and improving connectivity between the brain and spinal cord.
Kessler Foundation receives major funding from the Craig H. Neilsen Foundation to advance research in spinal cord injury and fellowship education
The Kessler Foundation has received significant funding to advance research on spinal cord injury, including studies on epidural stimulation and shockwave therapy for spasticity. The funding will also support the SCI Medicine Fellowship Program, which has trained approximately 50 specialists in spinal cord injury.
Study finds that sound plus electrical body stimulation has potential to treat chronic pain
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have found that combining sound with electrical body stimulation activates the brain's somatosensory cortex, increasing its potential to treat chronic pain. This non-invasive technique has been tested on animals and is planned for human clinical trials in the near future.
Improving human brain cognition with noninvasive, personalized treatments wins prize
Robert Reinhart's work utilizes noninvasive neuromodulation technology to develop personalized treatments for cognitive brain disorders. His research shows significant improvements in age-related memory function and compulsive behaviors with high-definition transcranial alternating current stimulation.
Advancing dynamic brain imaging with AI
A new AI-based dynamic brain imaging technology has been introduced by Carnegie Mellon University, which can map out rapidly changing electrical activity in the brain with high precision and speed. The technology uses deep learning approaches to translate scalp EEG signals back to neural circuit activity without human intervention.