Influence of Magnetism on the Human Brain
- Sylvia Rose
- 25 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Magnetism arises from moving electric charges and appears in various forms. The human brain, with billions of neurons communicating via electrical impulses, creates a magnetic field.
Electricity produces magnetism, as in the Earth's core. The planet's magnetic field arises from the motion of molten iron in the core creating electricity.
Magnetism & the Brain
Brains generate magnetic fields called magnetoencephalographic signals. Devices like magnetoencephalography (MEG) can detect the signals and provide real-time information about brain function.
Magnetic fields penetrate biological tissues without causing harm, thus are common in research and treatment. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) uses pulsing magnetic fields to activate specific brain areas.
Electromagnetic induction, whereby changing magnetic fields create electrical currents in neurons, can modify neuron excitability and firing patterns. TMS helps recollection by stimulating brain regions associated with memories.
Magnetic stimulation affects cognitive functions such as learning. Certain frequencies of magnetic stimulation can improve synaptic plasticity, the brain's ability to strengthen or weaken connections based on activity.
Sensory modulation with weak magnetic fields is used to reduce anxiety symptoms. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is used to improve focus, creativity, and problem-solving.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
TMS is a non-invasive technique used by researchers and clinicians to modulate brain activity and even treat certain neurological and psychiatric conditions.
A coil placed near the scalp generates a brief, focused magnetic pulse. The pulse passes through the skull to induce a small electrical current in the brain tissue. The current stimulates or inhibits activity of neurons.
TMS alters the excitability of neurons. Stimulation with high-frequency pulses can increase neuronal firing, raising activity in that region. Low-frequency pulses decrease neuronal firing.
Modulation of neuronal activity has various effects on brain functions, including:
Motor control: TMS is used to map the motor cortex and study how the brain controls movement. By stimulating different areas, researchers can observe muscle twitches to determine the relationship between specific brain regions and muscle groups.
Cognition: TMS can be used to define the role of different brain regions in cognitive processes like memory, attention, and language. By temporarily disrupting activity in a specific area, researchers observe how it affects cognitive performance.
Mood and emotion: TMS is used to treat depression and other mood disorders. By stimulating specific areas of the prefrontal cortex, involved in mood, TMS helps alleviate depression and improve overall well-being.
Therapeutic Applications of TMS
TMS is also an FDA-approved treatment for:
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): TMS is often used as an alternative or adjunctive treatment for depression when medication or other therapies haven't been successful.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Similar to its use in depression, TMS can help reduce the intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors associated with OCD.
Other Magnetic Influences
Magnetoencephalography (MEG): This non-invasive neuroimaging technique measures the magnetic fields produced by electrical activity in the brain. MEG can provide valuable information about brain function and help diagnose neurological disorders.
Naturally occurring magnetic fields: Researchers continue to investigate how exposure to the Earth's magnetic field and stronger magnetic fields generated by electrical devices might affect brain activity and health.
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