Novel Modulating Deep Brain Stimulation Techniques based on Real-Time Model in the Loop Concepts

To improve deep brain stimulation (DBS), we have studied stimulation-induced dynamics in target areas for DBS in mathematical models. We have implemented these neuronal networks on special fast digital hardware. Our real-time models enable us to simulate stimulation-induced processes in patients under real-time conditions. Our approach makes it possible to evaluate and optimize software and hardware realizing our novel demand-controlled DBS techniques (so-called model in the loop concept). The models and the control algorithms have been coded with the graphical programming language SIMULINK by Mathworks which enables a modification of the model dynamics and the control concepts in a fast and transparent way and thus facilitates and improves the interdisciplinary research in the field of neuromodulation. The goal of our approach is the design of novel stimulation protocols which specifically modulate the affected neuronal dynamics.