Industry News Briefs from the International Neuromodulation SocietyIndustry News Feed2026 News Briefs - International Neuromodulation SocietyEarlier News:
Review Highlights Role of Spinal Cord Stimulation in Refractory CRPS January 6, 2025 - A narrative review reports that spinal cord stimulation can provide meaningful pain relief, functional improvement, and quality-of-life benefits for patients with complex regional pain syndrome who do not respond to conventional treatments. The review also notes that while the therapy is generally safe, ongoing advances in neuromodulation technology and patient selection are key to optimizing outcomes and reducing risks within multidisciplinary pain care. (Source: Cureus) Vagus Nerve Stimulation Shows Efficacy in Drug-Resistant Rheumatoid Arthritis December 22, 2025 - A large randomized, sham-controlled clinical trial found that vagus nerve–targeted neuromodulation significantly improved disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis who had inadequate responses or intolerance to standard advanced therapies. Active stimulation achieved higher clinical response rates than sham at three months, with benefits sustained through 12 months and a favorable safety profile, supporting neuromodulation as a potential therapeutic option for refractory RA. (Source: Nature) New Research Highlights Maladaptive Brain Plasticity as a Key Driver of Chronic Pain December 22, 2025 - New research emphasizes that many chronic pain conditions are driven by maladaptive plastic changes in central pain-processing circuits rather than ongoing peripheral injury. This mechanism appears to underlie several severe and treatment-resistant pain syndromes, including neuropathic and nociplastic disorders. The findings support a shift toward viewing chronic pain as a brain network disorder rather than solely a persistent symptom, highlighting the need for changes in pain care practice and policy. (Source: JAMA Neurology) FDA Grants Breakthrough Status to Non-Invasive Neuromodulation Approach for ALS December 18, 2025 - The U.S. FDA has granted Breakthrough Device Designation to a non-invasive neuromodulation device intended to slow the progression of functional symptoms in people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The designation is intended to accelerate development and review of devices for serious conditions, as the therapy targets motor neuron hyperexcitability and is currently being evaluated in an ongoing clinical trial. (Source: GlobeNewswire) FDA Clears Updated Wearable Component for Implantable Neuromodulation in Urinary Incontinence December 18, 2025 - The U.S. FDA has granted 510(k) clearance for an updated external wearable that activates an implantable tibial neuromodulation system for urgency urinary incontinence. The system uses a minimally invasive implant near the tibial nerve combined with a patient-controlled wearable, with clinical studies showing sustained symptom reduction and high patient satisfaction without serious device-related adverse events. (Source: Femtech Insider) FDA Clears Non-Invasive Neurostimulation Device for Weight Management December 11, 2025 - U.S. regulators have granted de novo approval to a non-invasive neurostimulation device intended for weight management, which delivers low-level electrical stimulation to brain regions involved in metabolic regulation. In a clinical trial of overweight and obese adults, use of the device was associated with a clinically meaningful reduction in visceral fat over six months while preserving lean muscle mass. The approval allows the device to be prescribed in the U.S., with further studies planned for other conditions. (Source: Mass Device) FDA Аpproves At-Home Neurostimulation for Depression December 11, 2025 - The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a non-invasive, at-home neurostimulation system for the treatment of major depressive disorder in adults. The device uses transcranial direct current stimulation to target brain regions involved in mood regulation and can be prescribed as a standalone or adjunctive therapy. Clinical studies have shown symptom improvement within weeks, with generally mild and transient side effects. (Source: Mass Device) Brain-Computer Interface Boosts Recovery in Stroke Patients with Upper Limb Paralysis November 12, 2025 - A new study found that combining brain-computer interface (BCI) training with standard rehabilitation significantly improved upper limb function and daily living abilities in ischemic stroke patients compared to conventional therapy alone. Using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), researchers observed increased activation in key motor cortex areas and enhanced brain network efficiency after four weeks of BCI-assisted therapy. (Source: Scientific Reports) FDA Approves Non-Invasive Magnetic Stimulation Therapy for Chronic Pain November 12, 2025 - The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a non-invasive magnetic stimulation therapy for the treatment of chronic pain, offering a drug-free alternative that targets neural pathways involved in pain processing. Clinical studies have shown that the therapy can reduce pain intensity and improve physical function and quality of life. The clearance marks a significant step toward expanding evidence-based, non-addictive pain management options for patients and healthcare providers. (Source: Yahoo Finance) Brain-Computer Interface Successfully Decodes Mandarin Speech November 6, 2025 - Researchers have developed a brain-computer interface capable of decoding Mandarin speech in real time using high-density cortical recordings. The findings highlight the potential for advanced BCIs to restore communication and motor function for people with speech or movement impairments while stressing the need for broader studies to improve accuracy and generalizability. (Source: Medical Xpress) Neuromodulation Advances Offer Hope for Treatment-Resistant OCD October 29, 2025 - A review led by researchers from Lausanne University Hospital and Paris-Est Créteil University highlights that neuromodulation techniques, including transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), and deep brain stimulation (DBS) are promising options for patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder who do not respond to conventional therapy. (Source: NR Times) Combined Brain Stimulation and Robotic Training Boosts Motor Recovery After Stroke October 29, 2025 - A randomized clinical study from found that combining anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) with robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) improved lower limb motor function in stroke patients compared to RAGT alone. Using functional near-infrared spectroscopy, researchers observed enhanced connectivity between key motor regions, suggesting that this dual approach aids movement recovery and may also strengthen brain network communication. (Source: Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation) Spinal Cord Stimulation May Prevent Excess Mortality Linked to Chronic Pain October 27, 2025 - A new study published in Neurosurgery found that patients with chronic neuropathic pain who continued spinal cord stimulation (SCS) treatment did not experience the higher mortality rates typically associated with chronic pain. The ten-year study of 330 patients from the University of Eastern Finland and Kuopio University Hospital showed that those who discontinued or did not respond to SCS had increased mortality, suggesting that effective pain management through SCS could help reduce excess mortality rates linked to chronic pain. (Source: News-Medical Life Sciences) Heart Rate Response Predicts Depression Treatment Success with Magnetic Stimulation October 14, 2025 - Researchers at the University Medical Center Göttingen found that patients with major depression whose heart rates slowed within 45 seconds of starting magnetic brain stimulation showed significantly greater symptom improvement after six weeks. The study suggests heart rate deceleration may serve as a real-time physiological marker of effective brain engagement. The findings also showed that advanced MRI-based targeting provided no added benefit over standard stimulation methods. (Source: News-Medical Life Sciences) Brain Implants Show Potential to Alleviate Chronic Pain October 14, 2025 - Researchers are exploring direct brain stimulation and implanted devices to identify neural biomarkers linked to chronic pain and develop targeted treatments. Early studies using stereo EEG and machine learning have shown that brain signals can distinguish high from low pain states, and stimulation of specific brain regions has provided significant relief for some patients. Ongoing trials aim to refine these approaches into closed-loop systems that could offer long-term, personalized pain control. (Source: Healio) Deep Brain Stimulation Reduces Stuttering Severity in Early Case Study October 9, 2025 - Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt reported that deep brain stimulation (DBS) targeting the left thalamus reduced stuttering frequency by 46% in a patient with severe speech disfluency. The patient’s stuttering worsened when stimulation was paused, suggesting a biological effect linked to DBS. The team plans further studies to evaluate the therapy’s potential for others with severe stuttering and explore noninvasive alternatives. (Source: News-Medical Life Sciences) Targeted Brain Stimulation Shows Promise for Treating Depression October 6, 2025 - A UCLA study found that a 12-day course of high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) significantly improved mood in adults with moderate to severe depression compared with a sham treatment. The noninvasive therapy, which delivers focused electrical stimulation to specific brain regions, was well tolerated with mild side effects. (Source: Healio) NIH Funds Study on Tailored Spinal Stimulation for Improved Mobility After Injury September 26, 2025 - Washington University in St. Louis researchers received a nearly $3 million National Institutes of Health grant to investigate how personalized transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation can enhance movement in people with spinal cord injuries. The five-year study will explore how varying stimulation parameters affect muscle activation and leg control in 48 participants with partial motor function. (Becker's Spine Review)
September 22, 2025 - The FDA has approved a neuromodulation device that is implanted near the ankle to deliver electrical impulses to the tibial nerve, helping regulate bladder control in patients with urge urinary incontinence. The therapy provides a less invasive alternative to sacral nerve stimulation and enters a market with other tibial devices already available. (MedTech Dive) Long-Term Adaptive DBS Found Safe and Effective in Parkinson’s Disease September 22, 2025 - An international clinical trial evaluated long-term adaptive deep brain stimulation (aDBS) in people with Parkinson’s disease who were stable on continuous DBS (cDBS). Results showed that aDBS was well tolerated and provided effective symptom control comparable to cDBS, with reduced energy use in some cases. These findings suggest aDBS may offer a viable alternative for long-term therapy. (Source: JAMA Neurology) FDA Approves Vagus Nerve Stimulation Device for Rheumatoid Arthritis September 22, 2025 - The FDA has approved an implantable vagus nerve stimulation device for patients with rheumatoid arthritis whose symptoms are not adequately controlled by medication. The device delivers mild electrical pulses that regulate inflammation and has shown meaningful improvement in clinical trials, with some patients experiencing significant symptom relief. Researchers suggest the approach could also hold promise for other autoimmune conditions. (Source: NPR) Implant Stabilizes Blood Pressure After Spinal Cord Injury September 22, 2025 - Researchers have developed an implantable neurostimulation system that restores stable blood pressure in people with spinal cord injuries. Clinical trials across several countries showed rapid normalization of blood pressure, reducing dangerous drops and spikes. The findings offer a potential new approach to improving quality of life and reducing cardiovascular risks in patients. (Source: Education News Canada)
September 15, 2025 - The FDA has authorized the use of a transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) device to treat major depressive disorder in adolescents. TMS offers a non-invasive, drug-free alternative to antidepressants and according to clinical data, may lead to higher symptom remission rates compared with current medications. (Source: Healio) Targeted Deep Brain Stimulation Reduces Chronic Pain in Early Trial September 7, 2025 - Researchers at UCSF have tested a novel deep brain stimulation technique to treat chronic pain in patients with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). In early trials, the method reduced pain by around 60% for participants who received stimulation, allowing them to decrease reliance on medication and resume daily activities. While promising, further research is needed to determine its broader applicability and long-term effectiveness. (Source: CNN Health) Ultrasound Helmet Enables Non-Invasive Deep Brain Stimulation September 5, 2025 - Researchers have developed a transcranial ultrasound stimulation (TUS) system with a 256-element helmet array that can precisely target deep brain structures while monitoring activity with real-time fMRI. In experiments with healthy volunteers, the system selectively modulated the lateral geniculate nucleus and connected visual cortex regions, producing both immediate and lasting changes in neural activity. (Source: Nature Communications) Researchers Developed BCI That Translates Inner Speech in Real Time August 14, 2025 - Researchers at Stanford University developed a brain-computer interface (BCI) that can decode imagined speech in people with ALS or stroke-related paralysis. The system enables translation of internal verbal thoughts into sentences with 74% accuracy using neuronal recordings from the motor cortex. While effective for structured tasks, spontaneous thought decoding remains limited, and privacy safeguards are included to prevent unintentional access to private thoughts. (Source: The Scientist) Study Links Depression Symptoms to Shifts in Prefrontal Brain Activity August 6, 2025 - A new study published in Nature Communications shows that fluctuations in depression symptoms are tied to low-frequency communication and hemispheric imbalances in the prefrontal cortex. The findings support theories that depression involves disrupted inhibitory control in brain networks and could guide the development of personalized neuromodulation therapies like adaptive deep brain stimulation. (Source: PsyPost) AI-Driven Models Help Personalize Deep Brain Stimulation to Improve Walking in Parkinson’s August 5, 2025 - Researchers from University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) used mathematical models and AI to predict personalized deep brain stimulation (DBS) settings that improved gait in people with Parkinson’s disease. The study showcased that tailoring DBS based on individual brain activity could improve walking performance, pointing toward more effective, individualized therapies. (Source: Parkinson's News Today) FDA Approves Vagus Nerve Stimulator for Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment July 31, 2025 - The FDA has approved a vagus nerve stimulation device developed by SetPoint Medical for treating moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis in patients unresponsive to biologic or targeted synthetic DMARDs. Implanted in the neck and activated for one minute daily, the device showed clinical benefits in a year-long trial, with plans for U.S. commercialization beginning in select US cities in late 2025. (Source: Medscape) Advances in Neuromodulation Techniques for Parkinson’s Disease Treatment July 30, 2025 - Advancements in invasive and non-invasive neuromodulation techniques, including Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), transcranial stimulation, and focused ultrasound, are expanding treatment options for Parkinson’s disease by targeting both motor and non-motor symptoms. Emerging technologies like temporal interference, gene therapy, and nanoparticle-assisted drug delivery point toward a future of more personalized and adaptive therapies, though further clinical research is needed to confirm their long-term effectiveness. (Source: npj Parkinson's Disease) Vagus Nerve Stimulation Device Boosts Fitness Tolerance in Early Trial July 28, 2025 - A study published in the European Heart Journal found that using a vagus nerve stimulator for 30 minutes daily over one week improved oxygen uptake, heart rate, and breathing rate during exercise in healthy individuals. The device also reduced inflammation markers in the blood. According to researchers, the findings could pave the way for new therapies to help people with heart conditions improve their physical activity and well-being, pending further trials. (Source: Medical Xpress) Researchers Develop Advanced MRI Scanner to Map Microscopic Brain Structures in Living Humans July 16, 2025 - Scientists supported by the National Institutes of Health NIH developed a new system that noninvasively captures ultra-high-resolution images of microscopic brain structures in living humans. The scanner, called the Connectome 2.0 human MRI, enables researchers to map brain fibers and cellular architecture at nearly single-micron precision. (Source: Imaging Technology News) Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation Shows Promise for Enhancing Memory in Adults with Hearing Loss July 22, 2025 - A new study has found that transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) ehnanced working memory performance in older adults with age-related hearing loss (ARHL). Using a sham-controlled, crossover design, researchers observed that taVNS improved both verbal and visuo-spatial memory, suggesting its potential as a non-invasive intervention to support cognitive function in populations at increased risk for dementia. (Source: Nature) Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation Improves Math Learning in Young Adults July 1, 2025 - New research from the University of Surrey shows that non-invasive brain stimulation using transcranial random noise stimulation (tRNS) to the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) can enhance math learning in young adults with lower natural brain connectivity. The study found that improved learning was linked to lower GABA levels, suggesting this method could help reduce math learning gaps. (Source: Neuroscience News)
June 18, 2025 - A team of researchers from the University of California San Francisco have developed a personalized, data-driven approach to optimize deep brain stimulation (DBS) settings for improving gait in Parkinson’s disease patients. Utilizing a Walking Performance Index and machine learning models, the study identified individualized stimulation parameters that enhanced gait and uncovered neurophysiological biomarkers associated with better mobility. (Source: Springer Nature) Study Highlights taVNS as Potential Obesity and Diabetes Therapy June 2, 2025 - A new study shows that transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) reduces appetite, weight gain, and blood glucose levels in the context of a high-fat diet. As part of the study, researchers identified an orexin-dependent neural circuit as a key pathway, highlighting taVNS as a potential non-invasive treatment for obesity and diabetes. (Source: Nature) New BCI Restores Real-Time Speech for ALS Patient June 11, 2025 - Researchers at UC Davis have developed a brain-computer interface that enables real-time voice synthesis by translating brain activity into speech, allowing individuals with neurological conditions like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) engage in a natural conversation. In a study published in Nature, the researchers showcase how the technology enabled a participant with ALS to communicate in real time, change intonation and sing simple melodies. (Source: UC Davis Health)
June 2, 2025 - A randomized controlled trial found that stroke patients using a brain-computer interface (BCI) system with robotic hand feedback showed improved upper limb function and signs of neuroplasticity compared to a control group. While some neurophysiological differences were not statistically significant, the study highlights the potential of closed-loop BCI interventions to enhance motor recovery through ipsilesional cortical activation. (Source: Frontiers) Clinical Study Shows Promise for VNS-Enhanced PTSD Treatment May 6, 2025 - A pioneering clinical trial led by UT Dallas and Baylor University Medical Center found that pairing vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) with prolonged exposure therapy eliminated PTSD diagnoses in all nine participants six months post-treatment. The study suggests VNS may enhance therapy outcomes by boosting neuroplasticity and sustaining remission. A Phase 2 trial is currently underway to validate the findings. (Source: Neuroscience News) Study Shows Speech Cortex BCI Can Enable Computer Control and Communication for ALS Patients May 2, 2025 - Researchers from University of California, Davis have developed a brain-computer interface (BCI) that allows computer cursor control and click by using neuron signals from the speech motor cortex. In a case study, a participant with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) used the system to navigate a desktop computer, select on-screen targets with 93% accuracy, and type independently. (Source: Medical Xpress) Focused Ultrasound Eases Symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, and PTSD April 29, 2025 - New research from the University of Texas found that low-intensity focused ultrasound can safely target the amygdala and significantly reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD after three weeks of daily, noninvasive sessions. The treatment directly modulates deep brain activity without surgery or medication and showed a safety profile, supporting its potential for treatment-resistant mood disorders. (Source: Neuroscience News) Study Links rTMS to Brain Connectivity and Gene Expression in Depression April 24, 2025 - A study published in Translational Psychiatry found that high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in patients with major depressive disorder increased brain connectivity in key regions and was linked to genes involved in neural plasticity and synaptic function. These results indicate that rTMS may alleviate depression by modulating both brain networks and related gene expression. (Source: Springer Nature) Diffusion MRI Biomarkers Forecast Motor Improvement Post-STN-DBS in Parkinson’s April 21, 2025 - A prospective, open-label study found that preserved brain microstructure, as assessed by diffusion MRI, was associated with better motor outcomes following subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (STN-DBS) in patients with Parkinson’s disease. The findings suggest that neuroimaging biomarkers could enhance preoperative counseling and help predict which patients are most likely to benefit from the intervention. (Source: Springer Nature) Study Links Brain Stimulation to Cognitive Flexibility April 15, 2025 - A study from Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg found that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can subtly influence decision-making speed and flexibility by targeting the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. Anodal stimulation led to quicker decisions, while cathodal stimulation reduced cognitive flexibility, highlighting tDCS’s potential to modulate cognitive processes under controlled conditions. (Source: Neuroscience News) Spinal Cord Stimulation Significantly Improves Mobility in SMA Patients April 10, 2025 - A clinical trial using spinal cord stimulation significantly improved leg strength and mobility in patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), with participants showing a 180% average increase in leg strength over one month. While the effects faded after the treatment ended, researchers are planning larger trials to explore long-term use and extend the therapy to more severely affected patients. (Source: Columbia University Irving Medical Center) Study Finds Nerve Stimulation Boosts Phobia Treatment by Reducing Fear Responses April 9, 2025 - A new study published in Nature shows that transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) can enhance exposure therapy by reducing fear responses and behavioral avoidance in individuals with specific phobias. The stimulation appeared to activate fear-extinction pathways in the brain, suggesting taVNS may be a promising, non-invasive adjunct to anxiety disorder treatments. (Source: Nature) New Study Shows Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation May Decrease Pain April 8, 2025 - A multicenter study published in the British Journal of Anaesthesia found that add-on M1-repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) reduced pain intensity for up to 8 weeks in women with fibromyalgia, with a 99.4% probability of ≥50% pain reduction at 8 weeks compared to the sham group. (Source: Medscape) 25 Year Study Shows DBS Offers Lasting Benefits for Parkinson’s Disease April 6, 2025 - A 25-year study on deep brain stimulation (DBS) for Parkinson's disease (PD) patients found sustained improvements in motor function and quality of life, although cognitive decline was observed over time. Notably, DBS led to long-term reductions in medication use, highlighting its potential for reducing medication-related side effects, but the long-term effects on cognition and motor function must be considered in evaluating the treatment’s overall impact. (Source: Neurology Today) April 5, 2025 - A review of recent studies highlights that various non-invasive brain stimulation techniques like transcranial magnetic stimulation, transcranial electrical stimulation, and ultrasound neuromodulation can modify pathological brain activity, but the variability in study outcomes suggests the need for a deeper understanding of the mechanisms involved to optimize treatment efficacy. (Source: NPJ Parkinson's Disease) rTMS Stimulation Enhances Cognitive Function in Alzheimer's Patients by Rewiring Brain Networks April 4, 2025 - A recently published study with 73 Alzheimer's disease (AD)-spectrum patients explored the effects of neuronavigated transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on cognitive improvement, finding that true rTMS enhanced functional information integration across 27 brain regions, including attention and sensorimotor networks. The study also linked these regions to gene expression related to cellular homeostasis and immune inflammation, with baseline diversity coefficients predicting memory improvement after treatment. (Source: Nature) Researchers Develop Brain-Computer Interface for Real-Time, Personalized Speech from Brain Signals April 2, 2025 - Researchers at UC Berkeley and UCSF have developed a brain-computer interface that converts brain signals into natural-sounding speech in near real-time, with less than a one-second delay. This system enables continuous, personalized speech for people with severe paralysis. It works with both invasive and non-invasive brain-sensing methods, offering potential for real-time communication through brain activity. (Source: Neuroscience News) High-Intensity Cerebellar rTMS Shows Promise in Reducing Post-Stroke Dysphagia March 27, 2025 - A recent publication in Springer Nature presents the outcomes of a study aimed at assessing the feasibility, safety, and effectiveness of cerebellar rTMS for treating post-stroke dysphagia (PSD). While recruitment was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, results showed that active rTMS groups trended toward reduced swallowing impairment, with higher functional outcomes at discharge. High-intensity cerebellar rTMS proved to be particularly effective, suggesting its potential as a feasible treatment for PSD, though further trials are needed. (Source: Springer Nature) New Study to Test Deep Brain Stimulation for Alcohol and Drug Addictions March 18, 2025 - A trial is being launched in the UK to test deep brain stimulation (DBS) as a treatment for alcohol and drug addictions. The Brain-PACER study, conducted at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge and King's College Hospital in London, aims to use electrodes implanted in the brain to regulate neural activity and help control cravings. The study seeks to offer a potential treatment for individuals whose treatment until now has not been effective. (Source: BBC) |
| Last Updated on Friday, April 03, 2026 09:12 AM |
