Apparatus and method for modulating neurochemical levels in the brain
US8473060B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 30, 2009 |
| Grant date | Jun 25, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 28, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61N1/0534
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A treatment for Parkinson's Disease uses a stimulus electrode implanted in a subthalamic nucleus with a chemosensor implanted in a globus pallidus pars interna (GPi) of the subject. A level of a neurochemical is sensed with the chemosensor, and compared to a desired level. When the level of the neurochemical is less than desired, an electrical stimulation is provided to the stimulus electrode. In alternative embodiments, the neurochemical sensed is glutamate or dopamine. An alternative system uses a chemosensor implanted in the striatum instead of the GPi. An alternative system for treating benign essential tremor uses a stimulus electrode implanted in the thalamus with feedback taken from a chemosensor in the striatum.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.