Neurostimulation: New Frontiers in Mental Health Treatment

In this episode of the Neurostimulation Podcast, host Dr. Michael Passmore, Clinical Associate Professor at the University of British Columbia, delves into a groundbreaking meta-analysis on the efficacy of neurostimulation techniques like TMS and tDCS across various mental disorders. Covering 208 randomized controlled trials, the discussion highlights the potential of these techniques in treating conditions such as generalized anxiety disorder, substance use disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, schizophrenia, and PTSD. Passmore breaks down the results, emphasizing the importance of protocol standardization, discusses the implications for clinical practice, and explores future research directions and innovations in neurostimulation. Listeners are encouraged to consider the challenges and opportunities within this evolving field and to stay engaged for upcoming episodes focusing on personalized mental health care.

00:00 Welcome to the Neurostimulation Podcast

02:52 Introduction to Neurostimulation Techniques

07:12 Key Findings from the Meta-Analysis

11:06 Clinical Implications and Future Directions

17:29 Advanced Evidence-Based Critical Analysis

24:18 Summary and Final Thoughts

Study:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35365806/

Resources:

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS):

Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH): Provides an overview of tDCS, its applications, and ongoing research into its efficacy for major depressive disorder. 

https://www.camh.ca/en/your-care/programs-and-services/therapeutic-brain-intervention-service

Wikipedia - Transcranial Direct-Current Stimulation: Offers detailed information on the technique, its mechanisms, clinical applications, and current research findings. 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transcranial_direct-current_stimulation

The Times - Discusses recent research on the efficacy and safety of home-based tDCS devices for treating depression.

https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/electrifying-your-brain-at-home-can-treat-depression-study-finds-btdbjz2gh

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS):

Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH): Provides an overview of rTMS, its applications, and current research studies focusing on psychiatric conditions such as major depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and schizophrenia. 

https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-illness-and-addiction-index/repetitive-transcranial-magnetic-stimulation

Nova Scotia Health: Offers a detailed pamphlet explaining how rTMS works, potential side effects, and what patients can expect during treatment sessions. 

https://www.nshealth.ca/patient-education-resources/1975

Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre: Discusses the use of rTMS as a treatment for depression, including patient experiences and insights from medical professionals. 

https://health.sunnybrook.ca/mental-health/rtms-depression-treatment/

Mental Health General: Provides an in-depth article on rTMS, covering its mechanisms, effectiveness, and the mental health conditions it may help treat. 

https://www.mentalhealthgeneral.com/repetitive-transcranial-magnetic-stimulation-everything-you-need-to-know/

The Royal’s Institute of Mental Health Research: Features information on their Neuromodulation Research Clinic, which offers personalized rTMS treatments for depression and ongoing research initiatives. 

https://www.rtmsresearch-ottawa.ca/

Exploring TDCS for Migraine Treatment: An In-Depth Study Review

In this episode of the Neurostimulation Podcast, hosted by Dr. Michael Passmore, Clinical Associate Professor from the University of British Columbia, we dive into the world of transcranial direct current stimulation (TDCS) for the treatment of migraine headaches. The episode features a detailed analysis of the study 'Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Migraine: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials' by Hong and colleagues. Key areas covered include the study's methodologies, findings on the efficacy and safety of TDCS, and its potential implications for clinical practice. The episode aims to offer a comprehensive review and critical appraisal of the study, exploring how TDCS might influence future migraine treatments. Listeners are encouraged to engage with the content through social media and to consult their healthcare providers for personalized medical advice.

00:00 Introduction to the Neurostimulation Podcast

00:55 Podcast Mission and Audience

01:14 Evidence-Based Analysis Commitment

01:46 Disclaimer and Full Disclosure

02:26 Episode Sponsor and Introduction

02:55 Exploring TDCS for Migraine Treatment

05:12 Overview of the Hong Study

10:42 Study Findings and Implications

27:26 Critical Appraisal Using PRISMA

34:40 Conclusion and Future Directions

Study:

Hong P, Liu Y, Wei Y, Zhao J, Zhang J, Zhang Q, et al. Transcranial direct current stimulation for migraine: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. CNS Neurosci Ther. 2022;28(5):692–701. doi:10.1111/cns.13843.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35437933/

tDCS and migraine resources:

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique that has been explored as a potential treatment for migraines.

• The Journal of Headache and Pain: This journal features a systematic review titled “Which is the best transcranial direct current stimulation protocol for migraine prevention?” The article critically appraises randomized controlled trials to determine optimal tDCS protocols for migraine prevention. 

https://thejournalofheadacheandpain.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s10194-021-01361-0

• Brain Stimulation Journal: An article titled “Long-term prophylactic efficacy of transcranial direct current stimulation in chronic migraine” discusses the effectiveness of tDCS as a preventive treatment for chronic migraine, providing insights into study designs and outcomes. 

https://www.brainstimjrnl.com/article/S1935-861X%2822%2900040-7/fulltext

• The Journal of Head and Face Pain: This publication includes a systematic review on the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and tDCS for headache treatment, offering a comprehensive overview of neuromodulation techniques in managing headache disorders, including migraines. 

https://www.brainsway.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Stilling_The-Journal-of-Head-and-Face-Pain-2019_TMS_tDCS_Headache_Review.pdf

• The Journal of Neurology and Neurorehabilitation Research: A review article titled “The efficacy of tDCS in the treatment of migraine” examines various studies on tDCS application for migraine relief, discussing methodologies, results, and clinical implications. 

https://www.alliedacademies.org/articles/the-efficacy-of-tdcs-in-the-treatment-of-migraine-a-review.pdf

• SpringerLink: The book chapter “Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation” in the publication “Neuromodulation in Headache and Facial Pain Management” provides an in-depth discussion on the application of tDCS in treating migraines, including technical aspects and clinical findings....

Exploring TDCS for Fibromyalgia Pain Relief

In this episode of the Neurostimulation Podcast, host Michael Passmore, Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of British Columbia, introduces the podcast's focus on bringing cutting-edge neuroscience research and education to the public. The episode delves into the use of transcranial direct current stimulation (TDCS) as a treatment for chronic pain in fibromyalgia patients. Detailed insights into the systematic review and meta-analysis conducted on existing TDCS studies are provided, along with an exploration of fibromyalgia, its symptoms, and the challenges in treating it. The episode also discusses the methodology, findings, and implications of the research, highlighting both the strengths and limitations. Emphasis is placed on making the science accessible, and caveats are given regarding the educational nature of the podcast and the importance of professional medical guidance.

00:00 Welcome to the Neurostimulation Podcast

00:18 Introduction to the Podcast and Host

00:26 Podcast Mission and Structure

01:45 Disclaimer and Ethical Considerations

02:26 Episode Sponsor and Disclosure

02:57 Introduction to Today's Topic: TDCS and Fibromyalgia

03:21 Understanding Fibromyalgia

04:17 Challenges in Treating Fibromyalgia

05:26 Introduction to TDCS

06:13 Study Overview: TDCS for Fibromyalgia

06:50 Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Explained

07:58 Study Methodology and Parameters

11:58 Key Findings and Implications

15:10 Critical Appraisal of the Study

19:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Study:

Moshfeghinia R, Shekouh D, Mostafavi S, Hosseinzadeh M, Bahadori AR, Abdollahifard S, et al. The effects of transcranial direct-current stimulation (tDCS) on pain intensity of patients with fibromyalgia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Neurol. 2023;23(1):395. doi:10.1186/s12883-023-03445-7.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37919664/

tDCS and fibromyalgia resources:

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique that has shown promise in alleviating pain associated with fibromyalgia.

• Fibromyalgia Support Network (FSN): FSN offers patient education and resources on chronic illnesses like fibromyalgia. Their website provides information on various treatment options, including neuromodulation techniques such as tDCS. 

https://fibrosupportnetwork.ca/

• International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP): IASP features articles and systematic reviews on pain management strategies. One such article discusses the effects of tDCS on pain intensity in fibromyalgia patients, offering insights into its efficacy. 

https://www.iasp-pain.org/publications/pain-research-forum/papers-of-the-week/paper/the-effects-of-transcranial-direct-current-stimulation-tdcs-on-pain-intensity-of-patients-with-fibromyalgia-a-systematic-review-and-meta-analysis/

• Fibromyalgia News Today: This platform provides news and articles related to fibromyalgia research and treatments. An article titled “Managing Chronic Pain with Transcranial Direct Stimulation Shows Promise” explores the potential benefits of tDCS for fibromyalgia patients. 

https://fibromyalgianewstoday.com/2017/04/05/managing-chronic-pain-tdcs-transcranial-direct-current-stimulation/

• Neurology Advisor: An article titled “Can Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Effectively Treat Fibromyalgia?” discusses recent studies and findings on the use of tDCS in managing fibromyalgia symptoms, providing a clinical perspective on its application.

https://www.neurologyadvisor.com/news/transcranial-direct-current-stimulation-effectively-treat-fibromyalgia/

Home-Based tDCS: A Breakthrough in Treating Major Depressive Disorder

In this inaugural episode of the Neurostimulation Podcast, Clinical Associate Professor Michael Passmore from the University of British Columbia explores the fascinating world of neurostimulation, focusing on a cutting-edge study on home-based transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) for treating major depressive disorder. The episode covers the significance of tDCS as an accessible and cost-effective treatment, the robust design and findings of the study, and the potential applications and future of this groundbreaking therapy. The episode also critically appraises the study's methodology, results, and clinical significance. Brought to you in partnership with ZipStim Neurostimulation.

00:00 Introduction to the Neurostimulation Podcast

03:01 Understanding tDCS and Its Importance

04:57 The Mechanics of tDCS

06:51 Home-Based tDCS: A New Frontier

07:59 Study Design and Methodology

12:54 Results and Findings

18:15 Safety and Feasibility of Home-Based tDCS

23:32 Broader Implications and Future Directions

28:42 Critical Appraisal of the Study

43:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Study:

Woodham RD, Selvaraj S, Lajmi N, Hobday H, Sheehan G, Ghazi-Noori A, et al. Home-based transcranial direct current stimulation treatment for major depressive disorder: a fully remote phase 2 randomized sham-controlled trial. Nat Med. 2024;30(10):2045–54. doi:10.1038/s41591-024-03305-y.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39433921/

tDCS and depression resources:

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique that has shown promise in treating depression.

• Flow Neuroscience offers a home-based transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) headset designed to treat depression. This device delivers gentle electrical currents to stimulate specific brain regions associated with mood regulation. In the UK, Flow’s tDCS headset has gained attention as a non-invasive, medication-free treatment option for individuals with depression.

https://www.flowneuroscience.com/

• ZipStim: Specializing in physician-supervised, home-based tDCS treatments, ZipStim provides personalized therapy plans. Their platform emphasizes convenience and accessibility, offering comprehensive information on how home-based tDCS can be integrated into health care.

https://www.zipstim.com/

• Neuroelectrics Blog: An article titled “Home-Based tDCS as a Promising Treatment for Depression” discusses the feasibility and safety of home-administered tDCS, highlighting recent pilot studies and their implications for mental health treatment. 

https://www.neuroelectrics.com/blog/2024/04/02/home-based-tdcs-as-a-promising-treatment-for-depression/

• Mave Health: Their blog post, “tDCS for Depression: Is Home-Based Treatment Effective with Remote Supervision?” explores the effectiveness of home-based tDCS combined with remote supervision, providing insights into recent research findings and practical considerations. 

https://www.mavehealth.com/

• Neuroscience News: The article “Home-Based Brain Stimulation Shows Promise for Treating Depression” reports on recent studies demonstrating the safety and efficacy of home-based tDCS for individuals with major depressive disorder. 

https://neurosciencenews.com/home-tdcs-depression-27896/

Exploring Transcranial Temporal Interference Stimulation (tTIS) and Reinforcement Learning

In this episode of the Neurostimulation Podcast, hosted by Dr. Michael Passmore from the University of British Columbia, the focus is on Transcranial Temporal Interference Stimulation (TTIS) and its role in motor learning and reinforcement. The episode explores a study published in Nature Human Behavior which shows how TTIS can either enhance or disrupt motor learning by targeting the striatum, a critical brain region. Key insights include the methodology of using different frequencies of TTIS on healthy young adults, the impact on reinforcement learning, and the potential clinical applications for neurological conditions like Parkinson's disease. The discussion also delves into the ethical considerations and future directions for this promising non-invasive neurostimulation technology.

00:00 Welcome to the Neurostimulation Podcast

00:36 Introduction to Neurostimulation and Podcast Goals

01:43 Disclaimer and Personal Commitment

03:06 Today's Topic: Transcranial Temporal Interference Stimulation (TTIS)

04:14 Understanding TTIS: Mechanism and Bioengineering

06:37 Reinforcement Learning and the Striatum

10:04 The Study: Methodology and Experiment Design

13:46 Key Findings and Implications

16:50 Advanced Critical Appraisal of the Study

23:13 Future Directions and Ethical Considerations

26:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Study:

Vassiliadis P, Beanato E, Popa T, Windel F, Morishita T, Neufeld E, et al. Non-invasive stimulation of the human striatum disrupts reinforcement learning of motor skills. Nat Hum Behav. 2024;8(5):566–74. doi:10.1038/s41562-024-01901-z.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38811696/

tTIS resources:

Transcranial Temporal Interference Stimulation (tTIS) is an emerging non-invasive neuromodulation technique designed to target deep brain regions with precision.

• TI Solutions: This company specializes in developing devices and planning tools for temporal interference research. Their website offers detailed information on the science behind tTIS, device descriptions, and recent advancements in the field. 

https://temporalinterference.com

• Brainbox: Brainbox provides an overview of temporal interference, including its principles, applications, and associated products. The site also references key studies and offers insights into the technique’s potential. 

https://brainbox-neuro.com/techniques/temporal-interference

• Frontiers in Human Neuroscience: This journal features articles such as “A mini-review: recent advancements in temporal interference stimulation in modulating brain function and behavior,” which discusses the latest research and findings related to tTIS. 

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/human-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnhum.2023.1266753/full

• EPFL News: The École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) has published articles on non-invasive deep brain stimulation techniques, including tTIS, and their applications in enhancing motor learning. 

https://actu.epfl.ch/news/non-invasive-deep-brain-stimulation-enhances-motor

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...