13B. Solving Human Problems Flashcards
Brain-machine interface
Reads brain activity through EEG to predict behavioural intentions. Electrode arrays are implanted into the brain to find specific firing patterns for certain behaviours and translate them into algorithms that allow those tasks to be performed just by thinking about it
Neuroprostheses
Not only receive output commands but also provide input. Limited by number of electrodes and lifespan of those electrodes. Current arrays can only connect 100 neurons
Deep brain stimulation
Disrupts aberrant signals that take control of circuits so that normal communication can continue. Used to treat Parkinson’s, epilepsy, dystonia, Tourette’s, OCD. Potentially mood disorders
Types of transcranial stimulation
TMS (magnetic), tDCS (direct current), tACS (alternating current)
TMS can be used to treat…
Depression by focusing magnetic field over left prefrontal cortex
Advantages and uses of tDCS and tACS
More comfortable, cheaper, more portable. Can be used to improve memory, relieve chronic pain, depression, fibromyalgia, schizophrenia
What is one of the biggest challenges of developing drugs for the brain?
Crossing the blood-brain barrier
Blood-brain barrier
Tightly packed endothelial cells lining blood vessels that restrict the molecules that can enter the brain
Potential new drug/vaccine for Alzheimer’s
Using immune system.. Vaccine containing major component of amyloid plaques. Prompts development of antibodies that travel to the brain and tag amyloid-beta plaques. Tagging alerts microglial cells. Problems with inflammation
Nerve growth factor
Trophic factor. Slows destruction of cholinergic neurons, which play a role in Alzheimer’s. Injection stimulated regeneration of those neurons.
Brain derived neurotrophic factor
Potential in treating Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s, Parkinson’s, ALS, Rett syndrome.
Neurite outgrowth inhibitor
Having too much could prevent nerve regeneration. Upregulated in early stages of motor disease. Trying to use antibodies to disable it
Personalized treatment options for depression
Overactive amygdala = more likely to respond to psychotherapy. Higher activity in anterior insula = better with medication
Safest and most efficient vectors for gene therapy
Adeno-associated virus and lentivirus
When a player decides to risk everything to double winnings, which region increases in activity and why?
Insular cortex. Region allows players to picture negative consequences
