A groundbreaking study published on December 3, 2024, reveals that deep brain stimulation of specific areas can significantly assist individuals with spinal cord injuries in regaining their ability to walk. Conducted by a Swiss research team, the study highlights the success of this experimental technique, particularly for patients with incomplete spinal cord injuries.
Wolfgang Jager, a 54-year-old participant in the trial, shared his experience, stating in a video, "Now, when I see a staircase with just a few steps, I know I can climb it on my own." This marks a significant milestone for Jager, who expressed relief at not having to rely on others for support.
The researchers implanted electrodes in a targeted area of Jager's brain, connecting them to a device implanted in his chest. When activated, these devices send electrical impulses to the brain. This technique is specifically designed for individuals who retain partial movement due to incomplete spinal cord injuries.
The Swiss team, known for their advancements in brain and spinal cord implants, aimed to identify the brain area most involved in recovery from spinal cord injuries. Using 3D imaging techniques to map brain activity in injured mice, they created what resembles a "brain atlas," pinpointing the lateral hypothalamus, a region associated with awareness, nutrition, and motivation.
Professor Grégoire Courtin from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne noted that a group of neurons in this region appears to play a crucial role in restoring walking abilities after spinal cord injuries. The researchers amplified signals from the lateral hypothalamus through deep brain stimulation, a technique commonly used in Parkinson's disease treatment.
Tests on rats and mice showed immediate improvements in walking with electrical stimulation. One female participant in the 2022 trial expressed her sensations, saying, "I feel the desire to walk" when her device was first activated, highlighting the potential of this technology.
Both Jager and the other trial participants benefited from the ability to activate the stimulation device as needed, aiding their rehabilitation and muscle training over several months. While the goal for the woman was to walk without assistance, Jager aimed to regain the ability to climb stairs independently. Both achieved their objectives.
Despite the promising results, Professor Courtin emphasized the need for further research, noting that the technique may not be suitable for all patients. The effectiveness of the stimulation depends on the initial signal strength from the brain to the spinal cord, and some individuals may feel discomfort with such interventions.
Looking ahead, researchers believe that the optimal recovery method for these types of injuries may involve stimulating both the lateral hypothalamus and the spinal cord.