Recently
researchers have perfected a method of stimulating the brain that is more
invasive than TMS or VNS, but still is much less invasive than traditional
brain surgery, where the brain is permanently lesioned. This new technnique,
called DBS, involves inserting a very fine wire (about the width of a
human hair) into the brain using stereotactic guidance. Then electrodes
on this wire can be stimulated and the part of the brain where the electrode
rests is functionally offline. DBS of the thalamus is approved for the
treatment of Parkinson's Disease. The BSL is currently funded by the NINDS
to study the effects of DBS in patients with refractory Parkinson's Disease
who may also have depression. The BSL, in conjunction with the CAIR, will
also perform fMRI studies in these subjects, examining relevant circuitry.