Noninvasive placement and activation of deep-brain stimulating magnetic particles for reduction of drug-seeking behaviors

Abstract
Deep brain stimulationDBSwith implantable electrodes has been used for reduction of
ethanol abuse and drug seeking behaviors in EuropeThe use of such deep brain
stimulation procedures has been problematic because of concerns about invasiveness of
the procedureApplicant has developed a new noninvasive method of transporting magnetic particles
directly to target sites within the brainWe propose to use this method to place magnetic
particles in brain locations where DBS studies have shown reductions in drug seeking
behaviorOnce placedthe magnetic particles can be activated through external
application of magnetic fields to stimulate neurons mechanicallyWhen translated into
clinical usemagnetic activation could be performed with a wearable deviceas has been
done for other neurological conditionsmigraineepilepsyThe particles are designed to
degrade over a pre selected time intervale gsix monthsIn this proposalwe will demonstrate the short term safety and efficacy of the construct
in an rodent model of opiate relapse after a period of abstinenceEfficacy will be measured
by quantifying reinstatement of drug seeking behaviorThe results of this collaborative
work will lay the foundation for Phase II studieswhich will provide information needed
for human trials Summary
Deep brain stimulation with implantable electrodes has been used for reduction of
ethanol abuse and drug seeking behaviors in EuropeThe use of such deep brain
stimulation procedures has been problematic because of concerns about invasiveness of
the procedureCompany proposes to develop a noninvasive replacement for electrodebased deep brain stimulation