Early Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Exerts Neuroprotective Effects and Improves Motor Functions in...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Neurology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a noninvasive technique used to modulate brain activity.
• Its therapeutic potential for Parkinson's disease (PD) is being explored, but mechanisms and benefits require further investigation.
• Preclinical research is crucial for understanding rTMS efficacy and guiding clinical applications in PD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the therapeutic effects of rTMS on motor functions in a hemiparkinsonian rat model.
• To investigate the neuroprotective impact of rTMS on dopaminergic neurons in this model.
• To explore the underlying mechanisms of rTMS in mitigating PD symptoms.

Main Methods:

• A hemiparkinsonian rat model was established using 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) injection.
• Rats received daily rTMS treatment using an intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) paradigm for four weeks.
• Motor functions were assessed using gait analysis, bar test, and apomorphine-induced rotation tests. Neuroprotection was evaluated by counting tyrosine hydroxylase-positive neurons.

Main Results:

• Four weeks of rTMS intervention significantly reduced the worsening of PD-related motor symptoms.
• rTMS treatment preserved tyrosine hydroxylase-positive neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta and striatal fibers.
• The study demonstrated significant improvements in motor function and neuroprotection in the rTMS group.

Conclusions:

• Early and long-term rTMS, particularly with the iTBS paradigm, offers neuroprotective effects in a hemiparkinsonian rat model.
• rTMS effectively mitigates motor impairments associated with Parkinson's disease.
• These findings support the clinical relevance and potential utility of rTMS as an adjunctive therapy for Parkinson's disease.