Title:Brain Magnetic Stimulation in Animal Models: A Valuable Lesson for Clinical Applications
Volume: 15
Issue: 7
Author(s): Begona M. Escribano, Abel Santamaría, María E. de Lima, Francisco J. Medina-Fernández, Shahid Bashir and Isaac Túnez
Affiliation:
Keywords:
Animal models, Low/High electromagnetic stimulation, Neurochemical regulation, Neurogenesis, Neuroprotection,
Transcranial magnetic stimulation.
Abstract: Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is more than a mere tool for
clinical non-invasive approaches to stimulate and synchronize the neuronal activity
in the brain. Electromagnetic stimulation through TMS has recently emerged as a
therapeutic alternative for the treatment of different neurological disorders. Among
the many properties recently discovered for TMS, its action as an accounting factor
for neuroplasticity and neurogenesis is among its most promising features.
Translational studies in animal models offer various advantages and also bridge this
knowledge gap due to their direct assessment of the brain stimulation impact at the
neural level. These profiles have been obtained through the study of animal models,
which, in turn, have served for the establishment of the action mechanisms of this
method. In this review, we revise and discuss evidence collected on the promising properties of TMS
after visiting the different animal models developed so far, and provide a practical perspective of its
possible application for clinical purposes.
