AN EMP FOR YOUR THOUGHTS?
It wasn’t long ago that our understanding of neuroscience was limited to prodding a man’s exposed brain with a low power electrode to draw forth memories and cause muscle movements. Today, scientists have refined this particular treatment by using a technique known as Deep Brain Stimulation, or D.B.S. http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1214939,00.html
Deep Brain Stimulation is achieved by inserting an electrical conduit into the brain so that a small battery operated emitter can send therapeutic electric pulses directly to dysfunctional areas of the brain. The DBS works by manipulating the complex series of electrical signals that instruct our bodies and minds how to behave. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRIs) and other devices have advanced our understanding of brain control and behavior defining the electric impulses that control neuro-chemicals. This process can manipulate behavior, suppress memories, and even control movement.
Critics of the technique question the precision of the placement of these DBS devices. Sometimes a loose wire or faulty pulse emitter can send doses of electricity that can harm the brain. A poorly targeted device can damage a person’s capacity to function normally, robbing them of proper motor controls and creating neurological imbalances in the brain chemistry. Doctors claim they’re working on a non-invasive form of this technology, which, if successful, would allow them to manipulate the brains electricity through a remote device. http://jnnp.bmj.com/cgi/content/abstract/76/12/1614 This device would give doctors a similar degree of control over the patient without the invasive hardware.
Public research is inconclusive about the range and efficacy of the technique, but interest in the project is continuing to gain momentum.
Related Article: Brain stimulation for treatment resistant depression ›
April 25th, 2008 at 12:32 pm
is this for real? i know i heard about people having trouble with their pacemakers and that they can supposedly be “hacked”. i don’t know if i can buy them hacking our brains though. that just seems too “matrix” for me.