Neurostimulation Produces Calcium Waves in the Brain

As avid followers of neurostimulation news, we were excited to read of a groundbreaking study last week in Nature Communications. Researchers at the RIKEN Brain Science Institute in Japan have discovered that stimulating the brain with direct current produces benefits from its effects on astrocytes — specialized supportive cells distinct from neurons — in the mouse brain.

The research shows, using calcium imaging, that applying transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to the cortex of mice releases synchronized waves of calcium atoms from astrocytes. The calcium surges lead to excitation across the entire cortex, inducing accelerated brain plasticity. While tDCS has been an established treatment for a variety of neurological conditions for decades, its precise cellular mechanisms were not known.

The study has ramifications for Halo Sport, as it provides a deeper understanding as to how our device works. Further testing is necessary — and this was only found in mice — but it’s clear that astrocytic calcium transmission is responsible for positive effects on brain plasticity, one of the key goals of training with Halo Sport.

Read the full study here: