Title: Transcranial Electric Stimulation: Clinical and Experimental Perspectives – Time to Act or Continue Observing?
Abstract: Transcranial Electric Stimulation (TES), particularly transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), has garnered significant attention over the past 20 years for its neuromodulatory applications in neurological and psychiatric disorders. Despite its cost-effectiveness and potential to serve as an alternative to prescription medications, its adoption in developing and underdeveloped countries (DUCs) remains limited. TES offers a unique opportunity to address resource constraints in DUCs, where healthcare systems face significant challenges in managing these conditions. We propose a framework of action, including policy recommendations and implementation strategies, to facilitate the adoption of TES and unlock its potential for transformative healthcare outcomes in resource-limited settings. Bio: I am a neuroscientist and consultant at the Neuroscience Center, King Fahad Specialist Hospital, Dammam, with over 10 years of expertise in therapeutic brain stimulation. My work integrates electroencephalography (EEG) and neuroimaging to investigate cortical plasticity and network dynamics in vivo across cortical regions. With more than 130 publications in leading journals, my research spans from animal stroke models—exploring neuronal regeneration and functional recovery in adult primates—to pioneering studies on cortical plasticity biomarkers. My academic journey began at the University of Fribourg and CHUV Hospital, University of Lausanne, Switzerland (2002-2006), where I developed expertise in neurological rehabilitation and data analysis. I further specialized during a fellowship at the Neurophysiology Lab, University of Fribourg (2007-2008), under Dr. Eric Rouiller. At Harvard Medical School (2008-2013), under Prof. Alvaro Pascual-Leone, I advanced research on brain stimulation, neuroimaging, and genetics to address critical neuroscience questions.
