Neuromodulation: selected approaches and challenges

Abstract

The brain operates through complex interactions in the flow of information and signal processing within neural networks. The “wiring” of such networks, being neuronal or glial, can physically and/or functionally go rogue in various pathological states. Neuromodulation, as a multidisciplinary venture, attempts to correct such faulty nets. In this review, selected approaches and challenges in neuromoduation are discussed. The use of water-dispersible carbon nanotubes have proven effective in modulation of neurite outgrowth in culture as well as in aiding regeneration after spinal cord injury in vivo. Studying neural circuits using computational biology and analytical engineering approaches brings to light geometrical mapping of dynamics within neural networks, much needed information for stimulation interventions in medical practice. Indeed, sophisticated desynchronization approaches used for brain stimulation have been successful in coaxing “misfiring” neuronal circuits to resume productive firing patterns in various human disorders. Devices have been developed for the real time measurement of various neurotransmitters as well as electrical activity in the human brain during electrical deep brain stimulation. Such devices can establish the dynamics of electrochemical changes in the brain during stimulation. With increasing application of nanomaterials in devices for electrical and chemical recording and stimulating in the brain, the era of cellular, and even intracellular, precision neuromodulation will soon be upon us.

The Appropriate Use of Neurostimulation: New and Evolving Neurostimulation Therapies and Applicable Treatment for Chronic Pain and Selected Disease States

“…Parpura et al. described a potential interface between electrical stimulation and drug delivery that uses nanotechnology . They summarize what is known regarding the use of carbon nanofibers for both electrical and chemical recording and stimulation of nervous system tissue.…”

Microelectrode arrays in combination with in vitro models of spinal cord injury as tools to investigate pathological changes in network activity: facts and promises

“…Our model has already been shown to be suitable for preclinical testing of neuroprotective drugs selectively directed toward dysregulated mechanisms leading to neuronal or glial cell death (Margaryan et al, 2010; Kuzhandaivel et al, 2010a,b, 2011; Nasrabady et al, 2011a,b; Sámano et al, 2012). In addition, nanotechnologies (that employ carbon nanotubes; Bareket-Keren and Hanein, 2012; Parpura et al, 2013) in association with MEA recording may be tested for the ability to promote network repair and the functional outcome after experimental SCI. Electrophysiological data have already indicated an unexpected increase in synaptic efficiency when spinal networks are interfaced with these new materials (Cellot et al, 2011; Fabbro et al, 2012).…”

Repetitive and Retinotopically Restricted Activation of the Dorsal Lateral Geniculate Nucleus with Optogenetics

“…The modulation of neural activity has proved efficient for studying functional brain circuitry [1] , [2] . It is also a promising avenue for interventional psychiatry as controlling cellular activity of neuronal networks could help treat neuropsychiatric disorders [3] , [4] .…”