GLOBAL CHALLENGES

New Technology Can Rewire a Damaged Brain

Researchers at two Midwestern universities are working to create an electronic device that is capable of rewiring the human brain. Such technology could dramatically improve the prognoses for people suffering from brain damage.

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New Technology Can Rewire a Damaged Brain
A few weeks ago, Smarter Technology wrote about a virtual reality technology being used to treat post-traumatic stress syndrome in Iraqi War veterans. Veterans, who often suffer from physical in addition to psychological trauma, have inspired another technology that could help millions who have brain damage. A team of researchers is creating an electronic device that can rewire brain connectivity and help restore normal behavior and movement.

The human brain can become damaged during a wide number of traumatic events. Brain injury can lead to a slew of symptoms, such as loss of coordination, balance, memory and mobility. Emotional side effects can include mood swings, anxiety, depression and aggression.

An injured brain can cause side effects like loss of memory, paralysis and depression (source: NIH).

Even with improvements in helmets and armor, soldiers at war are at a high risk of contracting brain injuries. Coupled with the symptoms of post-traumatic-stress syndrome, brain injuries can be particularly devastating for veterans.

During development, the brain naturally builds and solidifies communication pathways between neurons. Traumatic injury can cause these pathways to become damaged or destroyed. In the month following an injury, the brain redevelops, with certain parts of the brain undergoing widespread, but not always perfect, rewiring.

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