Abstract
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) provides therapeutic benefit for several neuropathologies, including Parkinson disease (PD), epilepsy, chronic pain, and depression. Despite well-established clinical efficacy, the mechanism of DBS remains poorly understood. In this review, we begin by summarizing the current understanding of the DBS mechanism. Using this knowledge as a framework, we then explore a specific hypothesis regarding DBS of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) for the treatment of PD. This hypothesis states that therapeutic benefit is provided, at least in part, by activation of surviving nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons, subsequent striatal dopamine release, and resumption of striatal target cell control by dopamine. While highly controversial, we present preliminary data that are consistent with specific predications testing this hypothesis. We additionally propose that developing new technologies (e.g., human electrometer and closed-loop smart devices) for monitoring dopaminergic neurotransmission during STN DBS will further advance this treatment approach.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 85-103 |
Number of pages | 19 |
Journal | Neuromodulation |
Volume | 12 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Apr 2009 |
Keywords
- Deep brain stimulation
- Parkinson disease
- Subthalamic nucleus
- Voltammetry
- Wireless integrated circuit
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Neurology
- Clinical Neurology
- Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine