NeuroDots: From Single-Target to Brain-Network Modulation: Why and What Is Needed?

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biomedical Engineering
• Network Science

Background:

• Current brain stimulation techniques often use a single target approach, leading to limited success rates (around 50% improvement in 50% of patients).
• Brain disorders frequently arise from complex, maladaptive interactions across multiple neural networks, not just a single network.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a universal theoretical framework for brain functioning applicable to surgical neuromodulation.
• To define the engineering requirements for advanced implantable brain stimulators based on this theoretical model.

Main Methods:

• Conducted a comprehensive literature review spanning neuroscience and engineering.
• Developed a universal theoretical model for brain function and dysfunction relevant to surgical neuromodulation.

Main Results:

• Identified targeting key connector hubs within multiple interacting networks as a more beneficial strategy.
• Envisioned next-generation implants for distributed, multisite neuromodulation of correlated and anticorrelated brain networks.
• Provided recommendations for implant configurations and highlighted limitations of existing approaches.

Conclusions:

• Network stimulation presents a promising, universal strategy for treating both neurologic and psychiatric disorders.
• This approach moves beyond single-target limitations, offering a more comprehensive treatment paradigm.