Baycrest

BrainMATTERS SPRING|SUMMER 2021 11 They mapped that abnormal activity and targeted it using non-invasive brain stimulation. They found that the stimulation made the activity more normal – that is, faster – and improved language performance in the short term. Previous research has also demonstrated that brain stimulation can improve language performance in aphasia patients. However, Dr. Meltzer and his team are the first to target each individual's abnormal brain activity with the stimulation treatment. In contrast, the standard approach in previous studies has been to use the exact same treatment, targeting the same brain areas, on every patient. "Aphasia patients are highly variable in terms of where their brain damage is and what part of the brain should be stimulated for therapy. By mapping individuals' brain waves, we are finding ways to target the right area to improve their language performance," says Dr. Meltzer. While the participants in this study were stroke survivors, individuals with dementia have similar dysfunctional tissue in their brains, and the scientists are also examining the use of brain stimulation in this group. Currently, most people who suffer from aphasia undergo speech and language therapy. This helps them improve their ability to communicate by restoring as much of their language as possible, teaching them how to make up for lost language skills and finding other methods of communicating. While most people can make significant progress with this therapy, it is a relatively slow process and few people fully regain their communication abilities. Innovative techniques, such as individualized brain stimulation therapy, bring new hope that aphasia patients may one day recover more quickly and regain more of their language abilities. In this study, Dr. Meltzer and his team looked at the immediate effects of single stimulation sessions. As a next step, they have received funding from the Heart and Stroke Foundation to conduct a full-scale clinical trial looking at the longer-term impacts of repeated brain stimulation for stroke survivors with aphasia. However, this study has been suspended because of the restrictions on in-person research participation due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In the meantime, the scientists have pivoted to optimize other aspects of aphasia treatment. Baycrest research helps improve the way we prevent, diagnose and treat brain disorders like aphasia, improving the experience of aging for us all. If you would like to participate in our research, please visit www.baycrest.org/participateinresearch to learn more and express your interest.

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