Electrical Stimulation’s Effects on Neurons, Gene Expression Mapped in Living Human Brain Tissue

Researchers from UCLA Health and the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center have mapped the effects of electrical stimulation on neurons and gene expression in living human brain tissue, potentially paving the way for more precise neuromodulation strategies for cognitive decline and other neurological conditions. Their study, published in Nature, utilized an ex vivo platform to apply deep brain stimulation-like electrical stimulation to human temporal cortex tissue and record neuronal activity.

This approach allowed scientists to observe changes in cell assemblies and gene expression in response to stimulation. The results revealed that stimulation strengthened coordinated groups of neurons and connected these physiological changes to cell-type-specific gene regulatory networks. Brain cells exhibited increased synchronization after stimulation, with cell assemblies showing enhanced activation strength and membership flexibility.

Distinct genetic programs were also activated by both neurons and non-neuronal support cells, such as astrocytes. The authors highlighted the significance of working with donated living human brain tissue, noting its potential as a target for future therapies. While the study focuses on the temporal cortex region, which is crucial for memory and cognitive functions, additional research is needed to explore long-term effects, the impact on neighboring cells, and similar mechanisms in deeper brain regions.

Nonetheless, the findings establish a foundation for identifying targetable genetic signatures linked with physiology, potentially enabling the development of more precise neuromodulation strategies to aid in slowing cognitive decline.