Using implantable devices to improve brain communication for mental health
Implantable Neurostimulators for Control of Oscillatory Brain Networks
This study is testing a new brain implant that can help improve communication in the brain, which might lead to better treatments for mental health issues by using targeted stimulation to restore healthy brain patterns.
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-10854804 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing an implantable brain stimulation system that can measure and control the synchrony of brain oscillations, which are crucial for effective communication within brain networks. By utilizing advanced algorithms, the system aims to enhance the coordination of electrical signals in specific brain regions, potentially leading to improved treatment outcomes for various mental health disorders. The approach is based on the idea that healthy brain communication patterns can be restored through targeted stimulation, which may differ from traditional methods used for movement disorders. Patients may benefit from a more personalized and effective treatment for their psychiatric conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from anxiety disorders and other psychiatric conditions who have not responded well to conventional treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with movement disorders or those who do not have psychiatric conditions may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for mental health disorders by improving brain communication.
How similar studies have performed: While deep brain stimulation has shown some promise in psychiatry, this specific approach to controlling brain oscillations is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Widge, Alik S. — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Widge, Alik S.
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.