Combining artificial intelligence with brain-computer interface (BCI)

Depression is one of the most common problems in the world, according to the statistics of the World Health Organization, about 5% of adults experience depression. New treatments for depression are experiencing significant changes, especially with the advent of advanced technologies such as Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) and artificial intelligence. With the aim of increasing the efficiency and reducing the limitations of traditional methods, these developments play an important role in improving the quality of life of patients.

Treatment of depression with shock

In the past, treatment methods; Such as lobotomy and electroshock (Electroconvulsive Therapy – ECT), due to side effects and high risks, they were only temporary options. Popularized in the 1940s, ECT involved electrical stimulation of the brain and artificial seizures that affected overall brain function. Despite the relative effectiveness of this method, serious problems such as memory loss and physical complications led researchers to search for alternative methods.

Magnetic therapy

In 1985, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) was introduced. Instead of using direct electric current, this method uses magnetic fields to stimulate certain areas of the brain. TMS was developed specifically to treat severe depression that does not respond to medications and was approved by the FDA in 2008. Although this method has fewer side effects than ECT, it still faces problems such as the need for frequent visits to treatment centers and limited access for patients living in remote areas.

Problems in traditional methods of treating depression have led researchers to develop more innovative methods. In the TMS method, patients have to visit medical centers daily for several months. Also, TMS devices are usually only available in big cities, which makes patients in rural areas and small towns deprived of receiving this treatment. On the other hand, it is not yet clear whether this method will be effective for all patients, because the results of the treatment may vary from person to person.

Artificial intelligence enters

Brain-computer interface (BCI), as an advanced technology, has helped overcome many of the limitations of previous methods. This technology allows doctors to send precise pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain. In addition to the ability to stimulate the brain, BCI is able to analyze the patient’s brain signals and use artificial intelligence to make the necessary changes to improve mood. This technology includes a “mood chart” that, based on the data collected from the patient’s brain, analyzes the patient’s mental state and takes the necessary measures to adjust the brain activities in order to reduce the symptoms of depression.

Digital tablet for the mind

Inner Cosmos, the company that developed the BCI, calls the technology a “digital pill for the mind.” Unlike TMS, this tool does not require daily visits to the hospital or doctor, and patients can perform their treatment at home. This feature saves time and costs associated with visiting medical centers and makes access to treatment easier for all patients.

This technology is especially effective for patients who do not respond to antidepressants and have been prescribed TMS. BCI has been approved by the FDA as an IDE (Investigational Instrument) in 2022 and is recognized as a safe method in the treatment of depression. Data obtained from two patients who have used the technology for 24 months show that their condition has improved and shown initial positive results. These patients were previously treated with TMS and now they have experienced more improvement.

A report from the company Inner Cosmos also shows the significant improvement of a patient who was severely depressed when he started treatment with this technology. After several months of using BCI, this patient’s depression score on the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) decreased from 30 to 5, which indicates an 84% improvement in depression symptoms.

These successes show that new technologies such as artificial intelligence and BCI can be effectively used in the treatment of depression and other mental disorders. Using big data and machine learning models, these technologies can significantly improve the personalization of treatment and improve treatment results. The use of BCI shows us how artificial intelligence can play a role as an effective tool in improving the quality of life and reducing the pain and suffering of patients.

In general, it can be said that these developments not only help to better treat depression, but also show the high potential of artificial intelligence in other fields of medicine and therapy. Hence, focusing on specific and innovative applications of artificial intelligence can lead to the improvement of many aspects of daily life.