Deep Brain Stimulation To Help Dementia Patients

Scientists at Nanyang Technological University or NTU in Singapore discovered a new treatment method for memory retention in patients suffering from memory loss due to dementia diseases such as Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's disease. Scientists Ajay Vyas of NTU's School of Biological Sciences and Lim Lee Wei of Sunway University, Malaysia used electrical impulses to specific areas for memory retention.

NTU scientists said the new method has the potential to enhance growth of brain cells or neurons. When the front part of the brain is stimulated, with minute amounts of electricity, new brain cells are formed that help in memory retention. Increased number of neurons would result in reduction of anxiety and depression. Further, it helps in boosting overall memory formation, retention, and improved learning.

The scientists said the regular treatment in dementia patients, using anti-depressants, do not respond in 60 per cent and the new research opens new doors for more effective treatment options. The study report was published in eLife journal.

Dementia has been a disturbing and widespread issue to the modern world. Five million people in U.S. are suffering from Alzheimer's disease, the most common type of dementia, characterized by memory loss, speaking and writing issues, mood swings and personality changes. In Singapore, one in ten people aged 60 and above suffer from dementia.

by RTT Staff Writer

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Deep Brain Stimulation To Help Dementia Patients