Abstract

 

Closed-loop Deep Brain Stimulation for the Treatment of Involuntary Movements

The human brain consists of numerous networks distributed over space and connected over time to orchestrate meaningful interaction with the external world. Neurological disorders interrupt this interaction, and in some cases, they lead to involuntary tremors and tic disorders. My research focuses on identifying neural signatures of these disorders in the basal ganglia-thalamocortical networks and electromyographic activity in patients with essential tremor and  Tourette Syndrome who are undergoing deep brain stimulation (DBS) therapy. Bidirectional neurostimulators allow for biomarker identification for symptoms, and responsive stimulation overcomes many downsides of continuous DBS therapy to regain control of movement. We have shown the feasibility and safety of bidirectional therapy, i.e., closed-loop stimulation.