Magnetic configuration and timing scheme for transcranial magnetic stimulation

摘要

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a remarkable tool for probing the brain. However, it is still unclear why specific regions in the cortex are excitable by TMS while others are not. This invention provides methods and tools for the design of efficient magnetic stimulators. Such stimulators can excite neuronal networks that were not sensitive to stimulation until now. Stimulation can be carried out both in-vitro and in-vivo. Novel systems and techniques of this invention will enable both treatment and diagnostics by stimulating regions of the brain or neuronal assemblies that were previously unaffected by TMS.

主权项

1. A method for improved neuron excitation, said method comprising subjecting one or more neurons to a rotating electric field, thereby exciting said neuron or said neurons, wherein the rotation of said rotating electric field is the result of vector summation of at least two time-dependent electric fields that are induced by at least two time-dependent magnetic field pulses, said pulses at least partially overlap in time.