The TPS pulse causes short-term membrane changes on the brain cells, bringing about local changes in the concentration of transmitters and other biochemical substances. This results in activation of neurons and the development of compensatory networks, which improve the affected brain function. This has been demonstrated in comprehensive laboratory studies. The result: the memory network is boosted and memory performance improves. Some patients also report a marked improvement in their mood, they find it easier to be physically active and to actively participate in conversations.
Says Beisteiner: "It is like starting up an old engine again. Those neurons that are still activatable show marked improvements after the procedure. The decline in performance is slowed down." Apart from Alzheimer's, Parkinson's or Multiple Sclerosis, any diseases that can be improved by activating viable neurons are potential applications for TPS. At the same time, TPS offers patients an "extra chance", says Beisteiner, since all ongoing treatments with drugs and physiotherapy or occupational therapy can be continued. However, the new technique is also significant for basic neuroscientific research.
In the clinical pilot study, which has now been published as cover-article in the prestigious journal "Advanced Science", six one-hour sessions over the course of two weeks were enough to bring about improvements in brain performance. If the results of the pilot study are confirmed, clinical neuroscientists expect a breakthrough in the treatment of brain diseases. However, before this method can be put into regular clinical use, further scientific studies are required to evaluate the results. "We are still looking for volunteers for these studies. They would be people who have a diagnosis of Alzheimer's or Parkinson's but no other brain disease," says Beisteiner (Enquiries are possible from 07 January 2020 onwards, on telephone no. 01-40400-34080).
Service: Advanced Science
"Transcranial Pulse Stimulation with Ultrasound in Alzheimer's Disease – A New Navigated Focal Brain Therapy." Roland Beisteiner, Eva Matt, Christina Fan, Heike Baldysiak, Marleen Schönfeld, Tabea Philippi-Novak, Ahmad Amini, Tuna Aslan, Raphael Reinecke, Johann Lehrner, Alexandra Weber, Ulrike Reime, Cédric Goldenstedt, Ernst Marlinghaus, Mark Hallett, Henning Lohse-Busch.
About the Medical University of Vienna:
Medical University Vienna (MedUni Vienna) is one of the most traditional medical education and research facilities in Europe. With almost 8,000 students, it is currently the largest medical training centre in the German-speaking countries. With 5,500 employees, 26 departments and three clinical institutes, 12 medical theory centres and numerous highly specialised laboratories, it is also one of Europe's leading research establishments in the biomedical sector.
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