Abstract
Background
With transcranial pulse stimulation (TPS), a new, non-invasive brain stimulation procedure has been available since 2019 that, unlike previous methods, is based on the principle of mechanotransduction using shock waves.
Aims & Objectives
Individual MRI data sets form the basis for the infrared-assisted neuronavigation of the TPS and thus enable personalized neuromodulation. Various neurophysiological factors are discussed with regard to the specific mechanisms of action. Mechanical effects of TPS on the cell membrane, both in neurons and in glial cells, influence ion channels and lead to a change in cell membrane permeability. Changes in the levels of various neurotransmitters were observed after TPS treatment: In addition to increases in extracellular dopamine and serotonin levels, a reduction in GABA levels was noticeable. In addition, TPS treatment could lead to an increase in the levels of trophic factors (e.g. brain derived neurotrophic factor - BDNF and vacular endothelial growth factor - VEGF). Depending on the site of stimulation, there is also a reversible opening of the blood-brain barrier.
Method, Results & Discussion
CE certification for the treatment of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) has now been obtained in Europe and the first promising publications are available. The participants of this symposium are leading psychiatrists and psychologists and share their interdisciplinary expertise on TPS from the fields of science, research and practice. In addition to experiences from the practical application of TPS through real-word data from patients with AD, the speakers will also present results on off-label indications, such as TPS treatment with psychiatric (MDD, autism and ADHD) and post-Covid patients. The aim is to discuss the opportunities, risks and limitations of TPS and to venture an outlook on AI-supported innovative screening and monitoring tools.
Keywords: transcranial pulse stimulation, dementia, major depressive disorder, autism, ADHD