Abstract
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can be used to probe cortical function and treat neuropsychiatric illnesses. TMS has demonstrated neuroplastic effects akin to longterm potentiation and long-term depression, and therapeutic applications are in development for post-stroke recovery, Alzheimer's disease, and depression in seniors. Here, we discuss two new directions of TMS research relevant to cerebral aging and cognition. First, we introduce a paradigm forenhancing cognitive reserve, based on our research in sleep deprivation. Second, we discuss the use of magnetic seizure therapy (MST) to spare cognitive functions relative to conventional electroconvulsive therapy, and as a means of providing a more potent antidepressant treatment when subconvulsive TMS has shown modest efficacy in seniors. Whether in the enhancement of cognition as a treatment goal, or in the reduction of amnesia as a side effect, these approaches to the use of TMS and MST merit further exploration regarding their clinical potential.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 87-98 |
| Number of pages | 12 |
| Journal | Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience |
| Volume | 15 |
| Issue number | 1 |
| State | Published - Mar 2013 |
Keywords
- Aging
- MST
- Magnetic Seizure Therapy
- Neuroplasticity
- Neuroscience
- TMS
- Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Psychiatry and Mental health
- Biological Psychiatry