Two examples of Non-invasive Brain Stimulation Techniques: using Infrared Light (left) and SGB Radiopulse Under Fluoroscopy (right).

IBRF BRAIN-RELATED RESEARCH IS CURRENTLY TARGETING:

Mild to Severe Traumatic & Nontraumatic brain injuries including Severe Disorders of Consciousness (SDOC).

Neurodevelopmental Disorders of Childhood

• Autism Spectrum
• Tourettes Syndrome
• Learning Disabilities
• ADHD Spectrum
• Cerebral Palsy Syndromes

Stroke Syndromes including low-level stroke with disordered consciousness
Neurodegenerative Disorders of Aging

• Alzheimers Dementia
• Vascular Dementia
• Low Incidence Dementing Disorders

 

TRANSLATIONAL CLINICAL RESEARCH INITIATIVES IN PROGRESS

The TBI Severe Disorders of Consciousness (SDOC) & Low-Level Stroke Initiative (LLSI) – Cutting edge research program intended to advance diagnostic and intervention strategies for arousing consciousness in coma, vegetative and minimally conscious states. These programs will establish a new standard of care for these patients. Phase I of our protocols is focused on awakening these patients and Phase II is the cognitive and behavioral enhancement components.

The Development and Use of Advanced Functional Imaging Technologies – To establish more precise diagnostics utilizing neuromarkers (specialized brain maps) and biomarkers (specialized blood tests) that can guide treatment protocols and predict outcomes more accurately.

The Development of Specialized Noninvasive Brain Stimulation Techniques Known as Noninvasive Neuromodulation – Procedures utilizing electrical and magnetic stimulation, targeted off-label mediations combined synergistically with nutraceuticals, neuro and biofeedback, brain-computer interface technology and cognitive enhancement software programs. Hyperbaric oxygen regimens, use of stem cells nano-technology and stereotactic or functional neurosurgical procedures such as deep brain stimulation are all IBRF supported initiatives world wide.

Neurodevelopmental Disorders of Childhood – As an important focus of the IBRF, we have a major initiative with advanced diagnostic procedures linked to uniquely targeted interventions for children and adolescents who are on the autism spectrum. We are also developing clinical research and advanced care initiatives for the ADHD Spectrum, Learning Disabilities, Tourettes Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy Syndromes and neuropsychiatric disorders including childhood depression, anxiety disorders and Schizophrenia.

The Aging Brain – The IBRF is designing a multi-institutional collaborative project to understand the aging brain in relation to preservation and enhancement of cognition. Sustaining attention, memory and intellectual functioning in an environment that promotes healthy emotional and behavioral functions is critical to the quality of life in our aging population. Our Prevention-Intervention model utilizing the best neuroscience available is being rigorously pursued by the IBRF.

Phil DeFina Philip DeFina Dr. Phil DeFina Phil DeFina PhD.