Exploring the role of neuromodulation in neurodegenerative disorders: Insights from Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases
Mega Obukohwo Oyovwi, Kehinde Henrietta Babawale, Ejayeta Jeroh, Benneth Ben‐Azu
Abstract
• Neuromodulation studies how neurotransmitters and neuromodulators impact neuron and synaps activity, crucial for understanding neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's and identifying potential therapeutic targets. • The review highlights the impact of neuromodulation on cognitive functions in Alzheimer's disease, emphasizing the need for intervention strategies targeting neuromodulatory systems. • Parkinson's disease causes motor dysfunctions due to dopaminergic neurodegeneration, and understanding neuromodulatory pathways' impact on motor control can improve symptoms management and quality of life for affected individuals. • Research on neuromodulation presents promising therapeutic interventions for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, including deep brain stimulation and pharmacological agents targeting specific neuromodulatory systems. • Neuromodulation research is key to understanding/treating Alzheimer's & Parkinson's. It offers therapeutic potential via targeted interventions. Recent studies suggest neuromodulation as a potential therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD), despite their complex pathophysiology and limited treatments' efficacy, requiring further investigation. This study aims to explore the impact of neuromodulation techniques on the symptoms and progression of AD and PD, focusing on their underlying mechanisms and therapeutic benefits. A comprehensive review of recent literature was conducted, encompassing published articles, results of clinical trials, animal studies, and meta-analyses regarding various neuromodulation techniques, including transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), deep brain stimulation (DBS), and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Data on cognitive function, motor control, and quality of life were extracted and analyzed. Neuromodulation techniques demonstrated promising outcomes in both AD and PD. TMS showed significant improvement in cognitive functions in AD patients, while DBS resulted in substantial relief of motor symptoms and improved quality of life in PD patients. Additionally, mechanisms such as enhanced neuroplasticity, modulation of neurotransmitter systems, and the potential for neuroprotective effects were identified as key contributors to these benefits. Neuromodulation offers potential therapeutic solutions for managing symptoms and slowing neurodegenerative disorders like AD and PD, but further research is needed to understand long-term effects and optimal protocols.