The Powerful BDNF-Enhancing Benefits of TMS
Dr. Danish and Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry now offer TMS for a variety of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, addiction, ADHD, and others. For many patients with depression, this innovative treatment is covered by insurance for adults. TMS, or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain, and it has shown great promise in enhancing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling. This blog will delve into the BDNF-enhancing benefits of TMS, specifically highlighting a pivotal study published in 2011.
How TMS Enhances BDNF Signaling
BDNF is a crucial protein that supports the survival, development, and function of neurons. BDNF plays a significant role in long-term memory and the regulation of mood through a variety of factors, including by promoting neuroplasticity, neuronal connections, and neurogenesis. The study by Wang et al. (2011) demonstrated that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) significantly enhances BDNF signaling in both the brain and peripheral tissues like lymphocytes.
In this study, rats underwent daily 5 Hz rTMS for five consecutive days. Results showed an increase in the affinity of BDNF for its receptor, TrkB, in the prefrontal cortex and lymphocytes. This increased BDNF-TrkB signaling was accompanied by heightened downstream activities in the brain, which are essential for synaptic plasticity and neuronal health. Notably, similar effects were observed in human subjects, where 5 days of rTMS to the motor cortex decreased resting motor threshold, correlating with enhanced BDNF-TrkB signaling.
Impact on Prefrontal Cortex and Lymphocytes
Prefrontal Cortex: The study revealed that rTMS boosts BDNF-induced TrkB activation in the prefrontal cortex, a brain region vital for cognitive functions and emotional regulation. The increased signaling enhances synaptic plasticity, contributing to improved mood and cognitive abilities.
Lymphocytes: Interestingly, the study also found that rTMS enhanced BDNF-TrkB signaling in lymphocytes, suggesting systemic benefits. This peripheral activation mirrors changes in the brain, providing a potential biomarker for monitoring the effects of TMS.
Long-Term Potentiation and Synaptic Plasticity
rTMS appears to induce long-term potentiation (LTP), a lasting enhancement in signal transmission between neurons. The study found that this process is facilitated by the increased interaction between TrkB and NMDA receptors (NMDAR), critical components of synaptic plasticity. Enhanced LTP and synaptic plasticity are associated with better learning, memory, and overall cognitive function.
Clinical Implications for Mental Health
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) significantly enhances BDNF levels, which has substantial benefits for treating various mental health disorders. By increasing BDNF-TrkB signaling, TMS helps reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, addiction, and other conditions through improved neuroplasticity, neuronal connections, and neurogenesis. The study’s findings highlight TMS's therapeutic potential in enhancing brain function and promoting mental health.
Getting in Touch with Dr. Danish and His Team
At Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry, we are excited to offer TMS as part of our comprehensive treatment options. We stay updated with the latest research on TMS to provide the highest quality care in a safe manner. Our holistic and integrative approach ensures that we consider all aspects of our patients' well-being in developing personalized treatment plans. If you or a loved one are seeking support for depression or similar conditions, please text or call 610-999-6414 to learn how we can help.
Reference:
Wang, H.-Y., Crupi, D., Liu, J., Stucky, A., Cruciata, G., Di Rocco, A., Friedman, E., Quartarone, A., & Ghilardi, M. F. (2011). Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation enhances BDNF–TrkB signaling in both brain and lymphocyte. Journal of Neuroscience, 31(30), 11044–11054. Link to article
By highlighting these benefits, patients can better understand the potential of TMS in enhancing their mental health and overall well-being.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3161730/pdf/zns11044.pdf
