One of the most recent and innovative advancements in medicine is a special type of implant intended to improve symptoms associated with neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease, depression, and Alzheimer’s. Current treatments often rely on systemic drug administration, which can result in severe side effects as the drugs are distributed throughout the brain. Researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have addressed this problem by developing an implant designed to deliver drugs specifically to the area of the brain that’s been affected. Take a deeper look at this device below and learn about its promising potential for treating Parkinson’s and other neurological disorders. 

An Overview of the New Device That Could Help Treat Neurological Disorders 

How the Implant Works 

The implant created by MIT researchers is a miniaturized drug delivery system consisting of multiple tubes placed within a thin needle. Once inserted into the brain, it can be controlled remotely to administer a small volume of drugs. This provides the ability to regulate exactly how much medicine the patient receives and what part of the brain it goes to. When central nervous system drugs are taken orally or intravenously, they typically cause unintended changes in behavior and motor function as they travel throughout the brain. There is potential to prevent this with the targeted action of the implant. 

Neurological Issues It May Improve 

Because the device is customizable, it presents the opportunity to treat a broad range of neurological disorders. Various drugs can be used in the implant and directed to any circuit of the brain where an issue has been detected. This means it may be able to help with such conditions as Parkinson’s disease, addiction, obsessive compulsive disorder, and Alzheimer’s.   

Treatment Outlook

To date, the study has only collected data on animals and additional testing must be done before the device is ready to be implanted in humans. However, research has proven that it’s possible for the concept to work safely and effectively. The implant can infuse drugs into the brain and simultaneously monitor neural activity to see what changes after the treatment. MIT has applied for a patent.

Connecticut Advocates for Parkinson’s is a non-profit charity organization based in Marlborough, CT that is committed to supporting those across the nation who suffer from the debilitating effects of Parkinson’s disease. Part of their efforts includes raising awareness for cutting-edge technology that helps to bring healthcare professionals one step closer to treating this condition. They have also partnered with MIT and Yale University on the Cure Now:PD initiative with a mission to find new treatments and fund breakthrough research centered on Parkinson’s disease. For more information on how you can become part of this cause, call (860) 266-6040. You can also visit them online to make your donation.