University of Pittsburgh researchers have developed a device that can deliver direct electrical stimulation to areas of the brain to treat intractable seizures with motor and sensory manifestations.
Description
Epilepsy is the fourth most common, global neurological disorder. Focal resection of the epileptogenic zone is the current standard of care for medically refractory epilepsy (MRE), only where the cortical area of brain tissue can be safely removed without the risk of devastating complications. For patients with focal epilepsy, resection is not an option due to the high risk of neurological complications and treatment remains an unmet need. This novel device could provide relief for patients using deep brain electrode implants in areas of the thalamus, and without the need for brain resection.
Applications
• Focal epilepsy
• Rolandic epilepsy
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Neurological conditions (tremor, speech defects etc.)
• Targeting sensory afferents in the brain
Advantages
For patients with focal epilepsy involving primary motor and sensory cortices and supplementary motor sensory areas, resection of the epileptogenic zone is not a safe surgical option due to increased risk of complications.
This invention involves the implantation of a deep brain electrode in the motor areas of the thalamus to deliver direct electrical stimulation or other forms of neuromodulation, e.g., optogenetics or magnetic stimulation, overcoming the need for a surgical resection. In the absence of therapeutic solutions, the device offers a treatment for Rolandic or other epilepsies localized in the motor cortex.
Invention Readiness
In vivo testing has shown fibers connecting the thalamus to the premotor and motor cortices can be targeted with the potential to suppress seizures. A device has been developed where a deep brain electrode can be surgically implanted in the motor areas of the thalamus. These electrodes can be positioned to target both motor cortex and motor thalamus. Controlled, directed neurostimulation is delivered via pulses within a specific width, frequency, and cathodic amplitude. Application of these pulses can be of a continuous or phasic manner that changes over the course of a seizure, and high-frequency stimulation has been shown to suppress seizures.
IP Status
https://patents.google.com/patent/WO2024102862A2
