The Non-invasive Neurostimulation Network (N3) research program is centered on the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation technology.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) uses a magnetic field to non-­invasively stimulate small targeted regions of the brain. The magnetic coil produces small electric currents in the region of the brain just under the coil via electromagnetic induction. As a non-invasive and tolerable stimulation technique, TMS allows researchers to explore the human brain in a safe manner. Indeed, TMS is now a Health Canada-approved treatment for major depressive disorder, and is being explored for a host of other neurological and mental health disorders. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to identify and target specific brain regions for stimulations, providing an individualized approach to treat disorders in the context of a patient’s unique neurological or psychiatric symptoms.

At the University of Calgary, TMS is used to explore:

• Movement disorders, including Parkinson's, dystonia, and Tourette Syndrome
• Mental illness, including treatment for major depression, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder
• Cerebral palsy and neurodevelopmental disorders
• Neurorehabilitation
• Pediatric traumatic brain injury and concussion
• Pain
• Neuromuscular fatigue

To learn more about specific N3-supported studies at the university, please see our Ongoing Studies.

The Research Power of N3

The goal of N3 is to build a supportive community of brain and mental health researchers across the University of Calgary. Together, these researchers are undertaking collaborative, interdisciplinary research projects utilizing non-­invasive neurostimulation technologies, to both better understand brain disorders and modulate neural function toward better health outcomes. N3 strives to provide support and resources for researchers, allowing them to pursue new questions and expand the possibilities of neurostimulation. If you are a researcher interested in exploring neurostimulation, reach out to one of our staff to discuss how N3 can help. 
 

N3 is one of the NeuroTechnology platforms that supports the University of Calgary's Brain and Mental Health research strategy. The N3 research program gratefully acknowledges initial funding from the Hotchkiss Brain Institute and the Cumming Medical Research Fund.