Project R-3010

PHL-doctorate Daphnie Leenus titled "Does tDCS increasefontsize hand function in MS treatment and does this interact with the BDNF polymorphism of the individual" (Research)

Neuroplasticity is referring to the ability of the brain and the nervous system to change structurally and functionally as a result of input from the environment. Plasticity occurs on a variety of levels, ranging from cellular changes involved in learning, to large scale changes involved in cortical remapping . Decades of research now shows that tDCS has a positive impact on brain`s plasticity in both healthy and injured brain. The general hypothesis stated with our previous researches was tDCS activates the BDNF secretion in a high level which results in more synaptic plasticity. With this project we aim to investigate whether BDNF polymorphism of the individual, such that the Val carriers exhibit larger tDCS induced gains than Met carriers. In particular, the hotspot is the novel aspects like BDNF on memory Consolidation, long-term training and changes in brain structure. This translational research project consists of two major parts: - First, we will acquire fundamental knowledge regarding the modulatory effect of tDCS on training related plasticity in healthy volunteers. - Second, we will use this newly acquired knowledge to improve rehabilitation protocols for MS patients.

01 March 2011 - 28 February 2015