Neuroscientists from Yale University have found that a slight increase in temperature during brain stimulation can alter brain activity. The results of the study were: outlined In an article published in the Journal of Neural Engineering. The scientists used a computer model of the brain to arrive at these conclusions.
All kinds of electrical and magnetic brain stimulation devices used in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and epilepsy warm the brain. According to the authors of the study, even heating 1 degree Celsius reduces the activity of neurons. On the contrary, when they cool, they become very active.
“Our results suggest that clinicians should consider this side effect when using brain stimulating devices. Heat can suppress neuronal firing, and we don’t yet know how this might affect patients. Our work will help other professionals better calibrate the devices,” he said.
In the future, the team plans to find out how changes in brain temperature and neuronal activity affect a patient’s condition and how these can be used to improve treatment outcomes.