Multisite Transcranial Current Stimulation Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current transcranial current stimulation technologies are limited in their ability to simultaneously and optimally stimulate multiple cortical targets, as they primarily focus on single or dual electrode configurations, which is insufficient for addressing complex neurological and psychiatric diseases that involve alterations in brain networks.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for optimizing multisite transcranial current stimulation by providing weighted target maps of the brain's cortex, calculating optimal currents and electrode locations to globally stimulate multiple cortical targets with excitatory, inhibitory, or neutral stimulation, using advanced algorithms and realistic head models to account for electric field distribution and orientation relative to the cortical surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If single or dual electrode configurations are used, then device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but the ability to simultaneously stimulate multiple cortical targets is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the brain cortex into multiple discrete target regions, each assignable to specific electrodes. The optimization algorithm segments the stimulation problem into multiple localized targets that can be simultaneously addressed by a multi-electrode array, allowing independent control of stimulation at each cortical target while maintaining overall system manageability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from traditional single or dual electrode configurations to multi-electrode arrays distributed across the scalp surface. This spatial dimensionality expansion enables simultaneous stimulation of multiple cortical targets by placing electrodes at optimized locations that correspond to different functional brain regions, transforming a one-dimensional stimulation approach into a multi-dimensional networked system
2Adaptability or versatility
If multi-electrode configurations are used to stimulate multiple cortical targets, then adaptability is improved, but determining the ideal configuration becomes complicated due to non-local transcranial brain stimulation effects
Solution Approach 1:
The invention performs preliminary computational optimization to determine the ideal electrode configuration before actual stimulation. By using algorithms that incorporate individual anatomical data (MRI scans) and desired cortical targets, the system pre-calculates optimal electrode locations, areas, and current intensities, thereby simplifying the actual stimulation setup process and reducing the complexity of manual configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The invention incorporates feedback loops where the effects of electrode configurations are continuously evaluated and used to refine optimization. The system monitors the actual stimulation effects and adjusts electrode parameters accordingly, using iterative optimization algorithms that incorporate measured outcomes to improve subsequent configurations, thereby managing complexity through adaptive learning
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional tCS focusing on single cortical target is used, then manufacturing precision and measurement precision are maintained, but it is insufficient for addressing neurological and psychiatric diseases involving brain network alterations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies local quality optimization by tailoring stimulation parameters specifically to each cortical target region. Each electrode and its corresponding cortical target receive customized current intensity and duration based on the specific functional requirements of that brain region, allowing precise control over which areas are excited or inhibited while maintaining high localization accuracy for each individual target
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables more precise and effective neuromodulation of brain networks, improving the treatment of neurological and psychiatric diseases by allowing for simultaneous stimulation of multiple cortical targets, increasing focality, and reducing side effects.
Implementation Method 1
Transcranial current stimulation (tCS) is a noninvasive brain stimulation technique in which weak, constant or slowly varying electrical currents are applied to the brain through the scalp
Implementation Method 2
transcranial brain stimulation effects are largely non-local due to Ohmnic propagation effects
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method and a system for optimizing the configuration of multisite transcranial current stimulation, where the method comprises: - providing a target map on the brain's cortex, said target map including one or multiple cortical targets which are localized and/or continuously varying and spatially extended; - providing a weight map on the cortical surface prioritizing the areas in said target map for the purposes of optimization; and - calculating, based on said target and weight maps, optimal currents and optimal locations for a plurality of electrodes intended for providing transcranial current stimulation to globally stimulate at once said multiple cortical targets with excitatory, inhibitory or neutral stimulation. The system is adapted to implement the method of the invention. A computer-readable medium and a computer program containing program instructions for a computer to perform the method of the invention are also proposed by the present invention.