Neurotechnology

Comprehensive Summary

The article takes a look at deep brain stimulation (DBS) and magnetic resonance–guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) as treatment options for Parkinsonism and related movement disorders, especially in cases where medication is no longer effective. Parkinson’s disease affects more than 10 million people worldwide. It is caused by the gradual loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra, which disrupts normal cortico–striato–thalamo–cortical motor circuits and leads to symptoms such as tremor, rigidity, slowed movement, and balance instability. The researchers combine evidence from clinical trials, long-term follow-up studies, and recent technological developments to compare how DBS and MRgFUS work, how effective they are, and what risks they carry. DBS is described as an invasive but adjustable therapy that delivers electrical stimulation to brain regions such as the subthalamic nucleus and the globus pallidus internus to reduce abnormal neural signaling, rather than directly increasing dopamine levels. In contrast, MRgFUS is a non-invasive approach that uses focused ultrasound guided by real-time MRI to create small, targeted lesions in motor-related brain regions. DBS has been shown to provide long-lasting motor improvement in many patients for over a decade. At the same time, MRgFUS can produce immediate tremor relief in up to 96% of patients, with about 50–70% of that benefit lasting for several years. Additionally, the article highlights recent advances, including adaptive DBS systems that use brain signals, such as beta-band oscillations, to automatically adjust stimulation in real time. These technologies are shifting neuromodulation toward more personalized, circuit-based treatments, and DBS and MRgFUS should be viewed as complementary options rather than direct competitors.

Outcomes and Implications

This research is important because it can improve care for patients with Parkinson’s disease who struggle with worsening symptoms despite optimal medication management. By outlining the strengths and limitations of both DBS and MRgFUS, the article helps guide clinicians and patients toward more individualized treatment decisions. DBS remains beneficial for patients with complex or bilateral symptoms because it is reversible and can be fine-tuned over time, while MRgFUS is a better option for older patients or those who cannot safely undergo invasive surgery. The development of adaptive DBS with a closed-loop system can reduce unnecessary stimulation, lower side effects such as speech and movement problems, and extend battery life, thereby improving overall quality of life. The paper also discusses how genetic differences among patients may influence treatment outcomes, suggesting that future neuromodulation strategies could be tailored even more precisely. Although MRgFUS has limitations, such as its irreversibility and limited long-term data, ongoing FDA approvals and technological improvements suggest that its role in clinical care will continue to expand. The authors suggest that with continued research and refinement, personalized neuromodulation therapies can become a part of Parkinson’s disease treatment and offer patients safer and more effective options for managing their symptoms.

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© 2025 AIIM. Created by AIIM IT Team

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© 2025 AIIM. Created by AIIM IT Team