Kilohertz-frequency stimulation of the nervous system: A review of underlying mechanisms

BackgroundElectrical stimulation in the kilohertz-frequency range has gained interest field of neuroscience. The mechanisms underlying this frequency range, however, are poorly characterized to date.Objective/hypothesisTo summarize manifold biological effects elicited by context currently existing literature and provide a mechanistic framework for neural responses observed range.MethodsA comprehensive search peer-reviewed was conducted across electronic databases. Relevant computational, clinical, studies were selected review.ResultsThe on tissue diverse yield that distinct from conventional stimulation. Broadly, these can be divided into 1) subthreshold, 2) suprathreshold, 3) synaptic 4) thermal effects. While facilitation is dominating mechanism at subthreshold level, desynchronization, spike-rate adaptation, conduction block, non-monotonic activation during suprathreshold At been associated with transient depletion available neurotransmitter pool – also known as fatigue. Finally, extrinsic (environmental) intrinsic (associated stimulation) temperature changes have suggested alter response paradigms.ConclusionThe spectrum This offers potential new therapeutic avenues modalities. However, challenges caveats need considered experimental paradigms.