Improving Brain Stimulation for Psychiatric Conditions
Validation of Closed-Loop Prefrontal Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in a Non-Human Primate Model
This project aims to make transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) more effective for people with psychiatric disorders by timing the treatment to individual brain activity.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11199010 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are working to improve a brain stimulation treatment called TMS, which helps some people with psychiatric conditions, but doesn't work for everyone. Our approach involves using real-time brain wave recordings (EEG) to guide when TMS is delivered to the prefrontal cortex, a key brain area. This 'closed-loop' method could make TMS more personalized and effective. We are first validating this technique in non-human primates to understand how it affects brain activity at a very detailed level, which will help us bring this improved treatment to people.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research in non-human primates is designed to benefit future patients with psychiatric disorders who may be candidates for advanced TMS therapies.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct participation in a human clinical trial will not directly benefit from this specific non-human primate research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to more effective and personalized TMS treatments for psychiatric disorders, potentially improving outcomes for many patients.
How similar studies have performed: TMS is an established treatment for certain psychiatric conditions, but the closed-loop approach to personalize stimulation timing is a newer area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Opitz, Alexander — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Opitz, Alexander
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.