Objective
We aim to develop and validate adaptive closed-loop brain stimulation using advanced real-time electroencephalography-transcranial magnetic stimulation (EEG–TMS) technology guided by probabilistic deep artificial neural networks.
TMS is performed routinely worldwide in tens of thousands of healthcare institutions for treating a wide variety of brain disorders. However, current TMS protocols are limited by small therapeutic effect sizes and large portions of non-responders. A significant problem is that one size does not fit all: existing TMS protocols are non-personalized, operate without information of instantaneous brain states, function in an open-loop manner, and lack adaptability.
To address this, we have developed brain state-dependent stimulation in the ongoing ERC Synergy project ConnectToBrain. Real-time EEG–TMS has enabled reliable prediction of high- vs. low-excitability brain states and coupling of TMS to a prespecified state. While this is major progress, brain state-dependent stimulation is still open-loop and non-adaptive.
The key innovation in our current proposal is implementing truly adaptive closed-loop algorithms that continuously monitor TMS effects and optimize stimulation parameters in real-time to maximize beneficial long-term changes in targeted brain networks. Recent advances in machine learning now make this sophisticated approach possible.
This project represents a significant leap beyond ConnectToBrain by creating a user-independent, fully automated, adaptive closed-loop real-time EEG-TMS system ready for further testing in clinical trials. Our technology has breakthrough potential as a paradigm-shifting innovation in non-invasive therapeutic brain stimulation, addressing an urgent societal and medical need for more effective, individualized treatment of brain disorders.
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-ERC-POC - HORIZON ERC Proof of Concept Grants
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2025-POC
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
72074 Tuebingen
Germany
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.