The following is a summary of “Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation-induced neuroplasticity and the treatment of psychiatric disorders: state of the evidence and future opportunities,” published in the November 2023 issue of Psychiatry by Fitzsimmons et al.
Neuroplasticity, the adaptive alteration in neuronal connectivity and function due to activity-dependent mechanisms, is a pivotal process underlying numerous therapeutic interventions for neuropsychiatric disorders. Among these treatments, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has gained attention for its potential impact. An in-depth comprehension of rTMS-induced neuroplastic effects across diverse biological and temporal scales and the interplay between these effects holds promise in elucidating rTMS effects within clinical populations and enhancing treatment efficacy. Over several decades, neuroimaging and blood biomarker research advancements have increasingly unveiled the clinical relevance of measuring synaptic, functional, and structural changes associated with neuroplasticity in human subjects.
In this narrative review, researchers present an overview of the evidence surrounding rTMS-induced neuroplasticity across various tiers of the nervous system, emphasizing its application in treating psychiatric disorders. Additionally, the study group delineates the intricate relationship between neuroplastic changes and clinical outcomes while exploring strategies to optimize neuroplasticity. Furthermore, they identify key areas for future research endeavors within this domain.
The cumulative body of research underscores the capacity of rTMS to induce neuroplastic alterations within the nervous system, exhibiting potential therapeutic implications for psychiatric conditions. These findings spotlight the need for a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms and dynamics of neuroplasticity induced by rTMS across different biological scales and temporal domains. Moreover, the elucidation of the correlation between neuroplastic changes and clinical responses paves the way for refining treatment strategies and optimizing the therapeutic potential of rTMS in addressing psychiatric disorders. This review not only consolidates existing knowledge but also underscores the need for continued exploration and innovation in leveraging rTMS-induced neuroplasticity to enhance therapeutic outcomes in psychiatric care.
Source: sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0006322323017456
