Real-Time Brain Pacemaker Adapts to Each Step to Improve Parkinson’s Gait
UCSF researchers developed a closed-loop adaptive deep brain stimulation system that detects step-specific brain signals and automatically modulates stimulation within milliseconds, synchronizing with walking to improve gait symmetry and reduce falls in five Parkinson’s patients—evidence supporting a shift from fixed stimulation to behavior-responsive neuromodulation with potential broader applications.