The influence of high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on endogenous estrogen in patients with disorders of consciousness

BackgroundRepetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has been proposed as a promising therapeutic intervention for neurological disorders. However, the precise mechanisms of rTMS in neural excitability remains poorly understood. Estradiol is known to have strong influence on cortical excitability. This study aimed determine whether high-frequency (HF) influences endogenous estradiol male patients with disorders consciousness (DOC).MethodsA randomized controlled trial was conducted total 57 DOC. Eventually, 50 completed study. Twenty-five underwent real rTMS, and 25 sham which were delivered over dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. The primary outcome measure change serum from baseline after 10 sessions HF-rTMS. improvement score JFK Coma Recovery Scale-Revised (CRS-R) also assessed.ResultsChanges levels CRS-R scores pre-to post-treatment significantly different between active conditions. A significant enhancement receiving observed compared group. Serum following HF-rTMS higher than their levels, whereas no changes found group post-stimulation. rise greater responders non-responders. positively correlated scores.ConclusionThese preliminary findings indicate that are affected by related clinical responses elevation may lay physiological foundation successful treatment DOC increasing