Exploring the Parameter Space of High Frequency Magnetic Perturbation in Manipulating Neural Excitability and Plasticity.

NIH RePORTER · NIH · R44 · $103,750 · view on reporter.nih.gov ↗

Abstract

Project Summary/Abstract At Magnetic Tides we developed a radically new NIBS approach, one in which subthreshold modulation of neural excitability is brought about via oscillating magnetic fields at kilohertz frequencies. This system, referred to kTMP (kilohertz Transcranial Magnetic Perturbation) significantly increases the range of subthreshold E-field induction, and through modulation of the envelope of the kHz carrier frequency, can impose E-fields at physiological relevant frequencies. In the parent grant, the initial experiments are conceived to test tolerability and efficacy of kTMP in healthy participants, leading to behavioral experiments which focus on improving motor skills with kTMP. The goal of the supplement research project is to test the impact of amplitude-modulated kTMP (AM-kTMP) on a language task by targeting physiologically relevant frequencies to manipulate brain oscillations and speech perception. These results could have important consequences for the use of AM-kTMP as an intervention in the treatment of receptive aphasia. In parallel, the supplementee will help to test and validate our hypotheses about the needs of motor and language rehabilitation practitioners and center with regard to our novel neurological treatment. She will help target market segments and create value propositions with these customers. This aim will include customer discovery and business model hypothesis testing focused on building a scalable business model by talking to customers, partners, and competitors. The supplementee intends to apply to medical school to become a neurosurgeon. At this stage in her career her main goal is to gain a solid foundation in cognitive neuroscience and to be exposed as much as possible to the neurological rehabilitation setting. By the time her appointment ends, she will have acquired the core skills necessary to carry out an independent research project. She will also have a thorough awareness of the field of rehabilitation on many different levels, from the clinical aspect to the broader biomedical/health technology landscape.

Key facts

NIH application ID
11084210
Project number
3R44NS127667-03S1
Recipient
MAGNETIC TIDES, INC.
Principal Investigator
Ludovica Labruna
Activity code
R44
Funding institute
NIH
Fiscal year
2024
Award amount
$103,750
Award type
3
Project period
2022-08-15 → 2026-07-31