Lund University begins human tests of soft, hair-thin deep brain stimulation electrodes
Up to 12 people already scheduled for DBS for Parkinson's disease or essential tremor will receive the experimental HDBS microelectrodes in an early feasibility study.
Researchers at Lund University and Skåne University Hospital in Sweden have started an early feasibility study of soft “High Definition Brain Stimulation” (HDBS) microelectrodes in up to 12 people with Parkinson’s disease or essential tremor who are already scheduled for standard deep brain stimulation. Each device carries 30 flexible microfibers, thinner than a hair, that are guided into place through channels in gelatine, which then dissolves. The team, led by Jens Schouenborg with neurosurgeon Hjalmar Bjartmarz, uses very weak currents and maps the brain’s response in 3D to help place the permanent DBS lead. Spin-off Neuronano AB supports regulatory work (NCT07820189).
Today’s DBS electrodes have changed little in about 30 years. The researchers hope softer electrodes can give strong effects with fewer side effects, as seen in animal studies, but this first study is small.
Learn more: Deep brain stimulation · Biocompatibility