Optimization Study of High-definition Multi-channel Noninvasive Brain Stimulation Technique Based on Real-time Feedback of Brain Activity

Noninvasive brain stimulation methods are examples of evolving treatments for strokes and neurodegenerative diseases. Methods such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can be combined with exercise therapy and rehabilitation to enhance patient recovery. Professor Yun-Hee Kim from the NEURI Laboratory within the Samsung Medical Center and the Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine in South Korea is working to develop personalized non-invasive neuromodulation technology that, due to its individual approach, will further enhance the effectiveness of treatment. Kim’s goal is to develop a personalized stimulation technology that can monitor brain activity in real-time with no adverse effects on the patient. As such, she is working on a combination study involving high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). It combines neuroplasticity and neuroimaging tools in an effort to maximize brain plasticity and seeks to overcome the existing limitations of tDCS and fNIRS. Kim and the team intend to complete the technology they are working on through technical optimization and by commercializing the product, the researchers hope that they can help the rehabilitation of patients and support their return to society. It is important to Kim and the team that their technology works with both software and hardware and can be readily used by non-experts.