Stanford develops adaptive treatment for Parkinson's disease

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new treatment for Parkinson's disease called adaptive Deep Brain Stimulation (aDBS). While it is not a cure, it represents a significant advancement for many patients. The first person in the U.S. to receive this therapy is Keith Krehbiel, who was diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson’s disease 28 years ago. The aDBS device works like a pacemaker for the brain, adjusting itself based on real-time feedback from the brain's activity. This innovative therapy was approved by the FDA in February 2025. Parkinson's disease cases have increased significantly over the past few decades, affecting around 10 million people worldwide today. Experts predict that this number could reach 25 million by 2050. The new treatment could help many patients manage their symptoms more effectively. Dr. Helen Bronte-Stewart, who played a crucial role in the development of aDBS, explained that earlier treatments were not able to respond to the brain's rhythms. The transition to aDBS became possible thanks to a partnership with Medtronic, a medical device company, and an international trial that validated its effectiveness. The treatment involves surgically implanting a neurostimulator in the chest, with wires running to electrodes placed in the brain. Patients like Krehbiel have reported improvements in their condition, such as needing fewer medications and experiencing fewer side effects. While aDBS can improve symptoms, it does not stop the progression of the disease. Krehbiel and another patient, John Lipp, have both noticed ongoing challenges despite their improved conditions, including anxiety and trouble with movement. Experts emphasize the importance of ongoing research to improve Parkinson's treatments. Although aDBS is a step forward, there is still no way to slow the disease itself. The development of aDBS marks a hopeful chapter in the ongoing battle against Parkinson's disease.