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brain stimulation

·October 3, 2025·7 min read

Ultrasound Breakthrough Targets Multiple Brain Networks at Once

Researchers have developed a groundbreaking ultrasound device that can stimulate several precise points in the brain at the same time, marking a leap forward in non-invasive neuromodulation. Unlike earlier single-spot approaches, this technology uses lower-intensity ultrasound pulses that reduce risks of overheating and uncontrolled brain excitation.

This shows a woman in a meditative pose with a small device on her ear. She looks at peace and is surrounded by waves.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·August 10, 2025·5 min read

Electric Ear Stimulation Boosts Power for Self-Compassion

A new study finds that stimulating the vagus nerve via a small electrical pulse to the outer ear can amplify the benefits of self-compassion meditation. Participants who received stimulation alongside meditation training saw larger immediate boosts in self-kindness and gradual increases in mindfulness over time.

This shows a woman wearing a brain stimulation headset, focused on looking at her computer.

Featured Neuroscience

·July 30, 2025·4 min read

AI Brain Stimulation Boosts Attention at Home

Researchers have developed an AI-powered brain stimulation system that safely enhances attention at home. Using adaptive algorithms and non-invasive electrical stimulation, the system adjusts intensity based on individual traits like head size and current focus levels.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·July 1, 2025·6 min read

Brain Stimulation Reverses Synaptic Damage in Alzheimer’s

New research shows that low-intensity repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can restore key synaptic structures in mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease. The study found that axonal boutons—sites where neurons form connections—had reduced turnover in Alzheimer’s mice, indicating impaired brain plasticity. After a single rTMS session, the turnover of one bouton type significantly increased, matching levels seen in healthy mice.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·June 13, 2025·7 min read

ECT Cuts Suicide Risk by 34% in Severe Depression

A new meta-analysis reveals that Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) reduces suicide risk by 34% and all-cause mortality by 30% in individuals with severe depression. The study, which pooled data from 26 high-quality studies, compared nearly 18,000 patients treated with ECT to over 25,000 who received standard care. ECT also modestly reduced suicidal thoughts, showing broader health benefits beyond mental health. While newer therapies like rTMS and VNS showed some promise, the evidence was too limited to draw firm conclusions.

Neuroscience

·June 7, 2025·6 min read

Symptom Provocation Boosts Brain Stimulation Effectiveness

A new meta-analysis suggests that provoking symptoms just before delivering repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can improve clinical outcomes for OCD and nicotine dependence. Researchers examined data from multiple studies and found that rTMS was nearly twice as effective when paired with targeted symptom provocation.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·May 6, 2025·7 min read

Vagus Nerve Stimulation Erases PTSD

A pioneering clinical study found that pairing vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) with traditional therapy eliminated PTSD diagnoses in all participants up to six months post-treatment. The trial combined prolonged exposure therapy with brief bursts of VNS via an implanted device, enhancing neuroplasticity and sustaining remission.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·April 29, 2025·3 min read

Noninvasive Sound Wave Therapy Eases Depression and Anxiety

New research shows that low-intensity focused ultrasound can safely target the amygdala and significantly reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD. In a double-blind study, patients experienced marked improvements after three weeks of daily, noninvasive ultrasound sessions.

Featured Neuroscience

·April 15, 2025·5 min read

Mild Brain Stimulation Alters Decision-Making Speed and Flexibility

A new study shows that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), a non-invasive brain stimulation method, can influence how quickly and flexibly people make decisions. Researchers targeted the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex—key in planning and action—while participants performed simultaneous visual and auditory tasks.

Featured Neuroscience

·January 27, 2025·6 min read

Synchronizing Nerve Stimulation With Heartbeat Boosts Effectiveness

Synchronizing vagus nerve stimulation with natural body rhythms, such as the heartbeat and breathing, significantly improves its effectiveness. This "electric pill" technique uses ear-mounted electrodes to stimulate the vagus nerve, targeting chronic conditions like pain and inflammation.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·December 2, 2024·6 min read

Brain Stimulation Aids Walking Recovery After Spinal Cord Injury

Researchers have identified the lateral hypothalamus (LH) as a key brain region for walking recovery in spinal cord injury (SCI) patients, demonstrating that deep brain stimulation (DBS) can significantly enhance mobility and autonomy. Unlike traditional DBS applications, targeting the LH promotes long-term neurological improvements, even when stimulation is off. A clinical trial showed dramatic outcomes in participants, with restored walking ability and improved daily independence.

Autism Featured Neuroscience

·October 22, 2024·3 min read

Cerebellum Plays Key Role in Social and Cognitive Abilities

The cerebellum, traditionally linked to motor functions, also plays a vital role in social and cognitive abilities, according to new research. Abnormalities in this brain region not only impair movement but are linked to emotional and behavioral issues, particularly in autism.