Bundling expertise and infrastructure
By combining the practical and theoretical expertise in the two institutes, researchers will be able to use this infrastructure to influence and control brain processes at the individual level. Most neurostimulation has been using a ‘one -size-fits-all’ procedure, i.e. all subjects or patients were stimulated using the same protocol. Using the most advanced imaging techniques such as the 14T MRI scanner that will be built in Nijmegen, it will be possible to tailor the stimulation to the specific characteristics of an individual. In due course it might even be possible to develop closed-loop imaging-stimulation with the stimulation parameters being adjusted in real time-time based on the registration of brain processes. Such a research platform requires engineering support, advanced artificial intelligence, and in-depth knowledge of imaging and stimulation techniques. According to Edward de Haan, Scientific Director of the Donders Institute, there are very few centres in the world that can boast such a set-up.
Neural Control project
Neural control refers to the ability to measure and influence brain activity to better understand its functioning and restore abilities in individuals affected by neurological and psychiatric disorders. The potential of neural control is vast. For example, applications such as deep brain stimulation for Parkinson’s disease, non-invasive techniques for depression, and brain-computer interfaces for paralysis rehabilitation illustrate the transformative power of neural control technologies.
Despite advancements in neurotechnology, the full promise of neural control remains unrealized. Radboud and Maastricht universities, with their extensive expertise, are uniquely positioned to advance this field. Professors Rainer Goebel (Maastricht) and Edward de Haan (Radboud), leading figures in this collaboration, emphasize the importance of "closing the loop" between research and clinical applications. The Neural Control project has several objectives, including:
- To initiate a joint research programme combining basic neuroscience and key enabling technologies to measure and control brain activity at different time scales
- To serve as platform for co-developing large-scale grant applications
- To organize joint symposia and meetings for knowledge exchange
- To set the first steps towards an inter-university Neural Control Centre
- To stimulate student exchange and collaboration through joint internship projects and development of a new joint educational initiatives such as a minor in neural control
- To intensify and extend partnerships with health care institutions and other R&D partners in the region
Looking ahead
In the near future, we plan to organise a symposium for all Donderians to discuss potential research plans and collaborative opportunities using this shared platform. The first step will be to host a broad internal consultation to explore how best to utilise facilities. This meeting will focus not only on practical arrangements but also on identifying joint funding opportunities, such as grant proposals. Collaborative efforts, including a potential Gravitation Programme application with Maastricht University as the lead partner, are expected to significantly enhance our chances of success compared to individual initiatives.
This strategic partnership between Radboud University and Maastricht University marks an important step forward in neural control research. For the latest updates on this project and other initiatives, visit the Donders Institute website.