Exploring Clinical Neurostimulation: Techniques, Applications, and Future Trends

This episode of the Neurostimulation Podcast, hosted by Dr. Michael Passmore, clinical associate professor at the University of British Columbia, provides an overview of various neurostimulation techniques used in clinical practice. Techniques covered include Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT), Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS), Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), and Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS). The discussion highlights their mechanisms, applications, strengths, limitations, and future trends. The episode aims to make neuroscience research accessible to healthcare professionals, students, and curious individuals, emphasizing evidence-based analysis and the importance of personalized treatment plans.

00:00 Welcome to the Neurostimulation Podcast

01:05 Introduction and Mission Statement

01:33 Disclaimer and Sponsorship

02:52 Exploring Neurostimulation Techniques

04:54 Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

05:49 Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

06:44 Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (TDCS)

07:40 Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)

08:35 Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)

09:26 Emerging Techniques and Trends

10:03 Comparing Neurostimulation Techniques

13:52 Clinical Implications and Future Directions

17:32 Conclusion and Future Episodes

18:46 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

Neurostimulation resources:

Websites:

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS):

Provides detailed information on various neurological conditions treated by neurostimulation, including Parkinson's Disease, epilepsy, and depression.

https://www.ninds.nih.gov

The Brain Stimulation Journal:

An academic journal focused on the science and clinical practice of brain stimulation techniques. Access to abstracts is free, with some articles available for full reading.

https://www.journals.elsevier.com/brain-stimulation

Dana Foundation:

Offers resources on brain health and neuroscience education, including articles on neurostimulation techniques.

https://www.dana.org

Neuromodulation: Technology at the Neural Interface:

Another key journal for professionals interested in the latest research on neurostimulation technologies.

https://www.journals.elsevier.com/neuromodulation

Online Courses and Lectures:

Coursera - Neuroscience courses:

Universities like Johns Hopkins offer courses on neuroscience that touch upon neurostimulation. Courses like "Medical Neuroscience" can provide foundational knowledge.

https://www.coursera.org/courses?query=neuroscience

edX - Neurobiology courses:

Harvard's "Fundamentals of Neuroscience" or similar courses can dive into brain function and potential therapeutic interventions.

https://www.edx.org/search?q=neurobiology

YouTube Channels:

Neuroscientifically Challenged: Offers explanations of neuroscience concepts in an accessible manner.

https://www.youtube.com/@UCUgZq9PkDp1xaEivtcfJPSg

Neuro Transmissions: Focuses on various aspects of neuroscience, including mental health treatments like neurostimulation.

https://www.youtube.com/@neurotransmissions

Blogs and Educational Content:

Brain Blogger:

Regularly features articles on neurostimulation, mental health, and neuroscience research.

https://brainblogger.com

The Neuroethics Blog:

Discusses ethical considerations in neuroscience, which could be relevant when exploring the ethical dimensions of neurostimulation...