tDCS course intro episode - #8 - Jan 25, 2025

Introduction to Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) | Neurostimulation Podcast

Welcome to the Neurostimulation Podcast hosted by Michael Passmore, Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of British Columbia. This episode serves as the introductory lecture of a comprehensive course on transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). We delve into the basics, historical development, clinical applications, and future potential of tDCS. Learn how tDCS fits within the broader landscape of neurostimulation techniques and its advantages and limitations compared to other methods. Ideal for researchers, clinicians, students, and anyone interested in optimizing brain health. Explore the biophysical principles and practical applications of tDCS for mental health, chronic pain, cognitive enhancement, and more. Stay tuned for more in-depth discussions in upcoming lectures. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and join the community interested in the cutting-edge field of neurostimulation.

00:00 Welcome to the Neurostimulation Podcast

01:10 Introduction to Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS)

03:03 Foundational Concepts and Applications of tDCS

06:24 Understanding Neurostimulation and Neuromodulation

11:23 Historical Development of tDCS

16:28 Modern Applications and Techniques of tDCS

26:31 Current and Emerging Applications of tDCS

33:11 Conclusion and Next Steps

Lecture 1 slideshow available here: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGdPFE_Ilk/uMSBR1FbRRXpps9q3532IQ/view?utm_content=DAGdPFE_Ilk&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=hb2ceb734be

tDCS resources:

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation: State of the Art 2008

Authored by Michael A. Nitsche et al., this article provides an extensive overview of tDCS, including its mechanisms, applications, and safety considerations.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1935861X08000405

Transcranial DC Stimulation (tDCS): A Tool for Double-Blind Sham-Controlled Clinical Studies in Brain Stimulation

Written by Prateek C. Gandiga, Friedhelm C. Hummel, and Leonardo G. Cohen, this paper discusses the methodology for implementing tDCS in clinical research, emphasizing its utility in double-blind studies.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16427357/

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation in Neuropsychiatric Disorders: Clinical Principles and Management” edited by André R. Brunoni, Michael A. Nitsche, and Colleen K. Loo (2021)

This comprehensive book provides an in-depth look at the use of tDCS in treating various neuropsychiatric disorders, discussing clinical principles and management strategies. 

https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-030-76136-3

Excitability Changes Induced in the Human Motor Cortex by Weak Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation” by Michael A. Nitsche and Walter Paulus (2000)

This foundational study explores how weak tDCS can modulate motor cortex excitability, laying the groundwork for subsequent research into its therapeutic applications.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2270099/

Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation: A New Strategy to Improve Neurorehabilitation After Stroke?

Authored by Friedhelm C. Hummel and Leonardo G. Cohen, this article explores the potential of tDCS and other non-invasive brain stimulation techniques in enhancing neurorehabilitation outcomes post-stroke.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16857577/

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation in the Treatment of Depression

This article reviews the application of tDCS in treating depression, discussing its efficacy and underlying mechanisms.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0149763421001433