Non-invasive brain stimulation for patients and healthy subjects: Current challenges and future perspectives

• Published in: Journal of the neurological sciences Vol. 456; p. 122825
• Main Authors: Mattioli, Francesco, Maglianella, Valerio, D'Antonio, Sara, Trimarco, Emiliano, Caligiore, Daniele
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Netherlands Elsevier B.V 15.01.2024
• Subjects: Artificial intelligence; Brain - physiology; Brain augmentation; Brain manipulation; Digital twin; Healthy Volunteers; Humans; Neuro-enhancement; Neurology; NIBS; Stereotaxic Techniques; tDCS; tES; TMS; Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation - methods; Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation - methods; Treatment; Neuro-enhancement; tES; Treatment; Brain augmentation; Digital twin; Brain manipulation; tDCS; NIBS; TMS; Artificial intelligence
• ISSN: 0022-510X; 1878-5883; 1878-5883
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2023.122825

Non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) techniques have a rich historical background, yet their utilization has witnessed significant growth only recently. These techniques encompass transcranial electrical stimulation and transcranial magnetic stimulation, which were initially employed in neuroscience to explore the intricate relationship between the brain and behaviour. However, they are increasingly finding application in research contexts as a means to address various neurological, psychiatric, and neurodegenerative disorders. This article aims to fulfill two primary objectives. Firstly, it seeks to showcase the current state of the art in the clinical application of NIBS, highlighting how it can improve and complement existing treatments. Secondly, it provides a comprehensive overview of the utilization of NIBS in augmenting the brain function of healthy individuals, thereby enhancing their performance. Furthermore, the article delves into the points of convergence and divergence between these two techniques. It also addresses the existing challenges and future prospects associated with NIBS from ethical and research standpoints. •Literature on non-invasive brain stimulation techniques has grown exponentially.•A comprehensive overview is needed to guide their use for clinical conditions.•Magnetic and electrical stimulations are increasingly used for brain augmentation.•Similarities and differences are analyzed to address current and future challenges.•Ethical concerns are examined to guide responsible research in neurostimulation.