Neuroengineering approaches assessing structural and functional changes of motor descending pathways in stroke

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Stroke is a primary cause of adult disability, affecting over 101 million globally.
• More than 60% of stroke survivors experience long-term movement impairments, impacting daily activities and independence.
• These disabilities stem from structural and functional alterations in motor descending pathways, including the corticospinal tract (CST).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current neuroimaging, neuromodulation, and electrophysiological techniques for evaluating motor descending pathway changes post-stroke.
• To identify limitations and challenges in existing assessment methods.
• To advocate for the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and large multi-modal data registries for improved clinical practice.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent advancements in neuroimaging techniques (e.g., diffusion tensor imaging).
• Analysis of neuromodulation strategies (e.g., transcranial magnetic stimulation).
• Evaluation of electrophysiological methods (e.g., motor evoked potentials).

Main Results:

• Significant progress has been made in quantitatively evaluating motor pathway changes.
• Existing techniques face limitations in clinical practicality and breakthrough potential.
• The need for AI and comprehensive data registries is emphasized for future advancements.

Conclusions:

• Current neuroengineering approaches for assessing post-stroke motor pathway changes require further development.
• Artificial intelligence and large multi-modal data are crucial for a paradigm shift in stroke prognosis and treatment.
• A groundbreaking advance is needed to integrate these technologies into standard clinical care for stroke survivors.