Study Shows Deep Brain Stimulation Could Help Control Lung Function

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a common treatment for patients with chronic pain or movement disorders. A unique set of experiments now reveals that electrical stimulation in some of the same brain areas also can affect respiratory function. That’s according to a study published in the February issue of Neurosurgery — the official journal of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons.

The preliminary findings of this research help to clarify the brain’s involvement in controlling lung function, and offer useful insights for the development of new treatments for diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). For more information, click here to read the full release.