Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation System

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Non-invasive brain stimulation techniques are essential for understanding neural mechanisms associated with neuroplasticity in the central nervous system (CNS). Neuroplasticity is the foundation for adaptation in the CNS associated with experience-dependent learning, sensori-motor integration and in the restoration of function following nervous system injury. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an effective, non-invasive brain stimulation method that involves passing current through a stimulator coil that generates a magnetic field perpendicular to the current flow. The magnetic field passes through the bone of the skull unimpeded and excites neurons in the cerebral cortex. Dr. Staines currently has a TMS unit (Medtronic / Magventure MagPro x100) that is reaching the end of its recommended lifespan (~ 10 years). The stimulation coils also require replacement every ~3-5 years. There are 2 specific coils required that allow stimulation in different frequency patterns. Such stimulation can be done with single or paired-pulse configurations to the cerebral cortex or in a repetitive mode requiring multiple stimuli to be delivered over a short time frame. One such pattern is termed theta burst stimulation (TBS) in which stimuli are delivered in burst patterns of 3 stimuli at 50 Hz delivered at a frequency of 5 Hz (theta) over a short period of time. This TBS can be delivered in different modes to either transiently excite or depress a specific area of the brain. The present request is for replacement of the current TMS system (MagPro) including 2 stimulation coils and replacement electroencephalography (EEG) caps to integrate with our current TMS and EEG (SynAmps2, Neuroscan, Compumedics) systems. This will allow the quantification of neuromodulation induced by the TMS both within and across individuals to be greatly enhanced. This is critical for studies of the neural mechanisms associated with sensorimotor neuroplasticity, cognitive neuroscience and oculomotor processes. The equipment will allow the continuation of ongoing work as well as the development of new collaborative teams. HQP from several Faculties (AHS, Science, Arts) will have access to training and use of the equipment.