Transcranial magnetic stimulation: the method and application.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Medical Technology

Background:

• Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive brain stimulation method.
• It utilizes magnetic fields to induce electrical currents in brain tissues, leading to neuronal depolarization and action potential generation.
• TMS also influences neurochemical and synaptic processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the applications of TMS in neuroscience and medicine.
• To highlight its utility in investigating cortical and spinal excitability, neuronal plasticity, connectivity, and functional mapping.
• To discuss its role in treating neurological and psychiatric disorders.

Main Methods:

• The review discusses the principles of TMS, including magnetic field penetration and current induction.
• It also covers the integration of TMS with other neuroimaging (PET, MRI) and neurofunctional (EEG, ERP, fMRI) methods.
• Applications in research and clinical settings are examined.

Main Results:

• TMS is effective in investigating various aspects of brain function.
• It serves as a valuable tool for functional mapping and diagnosing neurological and psychiatric conditions.
• Combined with other methods, TMS enhances brain research capabilities.

Conclusions:

• Transcranial magnetic stimulation is a versatile and safe noninvasive brain stimulation technique.
• Its applications span research, diagnostics, and therapeutics in neuroscience and medicine.
• TMS is a valuable tool for understanding and treating brain disorders.