Epileptic seizures, with their synchronized bursts of neural activity, can be tamed! Traditional therapies focus on suppressing seizures during the ictal period, but once the stimulation is turned off, the seizures may return. However, a groundbreaking study introduces a new neurostimulation technique called Forced Temporal Spike-Time Stimulation (FTSTS). By leveraging synaptic plasticity, FTSTS desynchronizes pathological firing patterns and shows promise in preventing seizure re-emergence. In this in silico computational study, researchers optimize the parameters of the FTSTS protocol to effectively control neocortical epileptic seizures. By modifying the excitatory-to-inhibitory synaptic weight even after the ictal period, FTSTS proves its potential as a long-lasting therapy. This exciting investigation paves the way for a potential new frontier in neurostimulation treatments for epilepsy. Curious to learn more about this cutting-edge research? Dive into the full article below!
Epileptic seizure is typically characterized by highly synchronized episodes of neural activity. Existing stimulation therapies focus purely on suppressing the pathologically synchronized neuronal firing patterns during the ictal (seizure) period. While these strategies are effective in suppressing seizures when they occur, they fail to prevent the re-emergence of seizures once the stimulation is turned off. Previously, we developed a novel neurostimulation motif, which we refer to as “Forced Temporal Spike-Time Stimulation” (FTSTS) that has shown remarkable promise in long-lasting desynchronization of excessively synchronized neuronal firing patterns by harnessing synaptic plasticity. In this paper, we build upon this prior work by optimizing the parameters of the FTSTS protocol in order to efficiently desynchronize the pathologically synchronous neuronal firing patterns that occur during epileptic seizures using a recently published computational model of neocortical-onset seizures. We show that the FTSTS protocol applied during the ictal period can modify the excitatory-to-inhibitory synaptic weight in order to effectively desynchronize the pathological neuronal firing patterns even after the ictal period. Our investigation opens the door to a possible new neurostimulation therapy for epilepsy.
Dr. David Lowemann, M.Sc, Ph.D., is a co-founder of the Institute for the Future of Human Potential, where he leads the charge in pioneering Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society. With a keen interest in exploring the untapped potential of the human mind, Dr. Lowemann has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and understanding.
Armed with a Master of Science degree and a Ph.D. in his field, Dr. Lowemann has consistently been at the forefront of research and innovation, delving into ways to optimize human performance, cognition, and overall well-being. His work at the Institute revolves around a profound commitment to harnessing cutting-edge science and technology to help individuals lead more fulfilling and intelligent lives.
Dr. Lowemann’s influence extends to the educational platform BetterSmarter.me, where he shares his insights, findings, and personal development strategies with a broader audience. His ongoing mission is shaping the way we perceive and leverage the vast capacities of the human mind, offering invaluable contributions to society’s overall success and collective well-being.