Chinese scientists identify core brain network underlying Parkinson’s disease, enabling better treatment-Xinhua
A groundbreaking study led by Professor Liu Hesheng at Changping Laboratory in Beijing has identified a core brain network implicated in Parkinson’s disease, offering new avenues for targeted treatment. The research, published in the journal Nature, builds on years of investigation into the complexities of this neurodegenerative disorder and has already yielded promising results in clinical trials.
Understanding Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder, following Alzheimer’s disease, and presents a significant global health challenge. While traditionally viewed as a movement disorder—characterized by tremors, slowed movement, and difficulty walking—it also manifests in a range of non-motor symptoms, including low blood pressure, sleep disturbances, and digestive problems. These non-motor symptoms have historically been difficult to explain and treat effectively.
The Discovery of the SCAN
The research team’s work centers on the somato-cognitive action network, or SCAN, a brain network located in the cortex. This network connects brain regions crucial for movement control, including the basal ganglia and thalamus, areas already targeted in existing Parkinson’s treatments. The key finding is that connections within the SCAN are abnormally strengthened in patients with Parkinson’s disease.
Precision Treatment with Brain Circuit Stimulation
Building on Professor Liu’s previous research, Galaxy Brain Scientific Inc. Has developed a precision brain circuit stimulator capable of millimeter-level accuracy in targeting treatment areas. This technology utilizes Personalized Brain Functional Sectors (pBFS), which create detailed maps of individual brain function, coupled with a real-time navigation system for highly targeted magnetic stimulation—a process known as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).
According to Deng Wei, CEO of Galaxy Brain Scientific Inc., traditional localization methods could take 15 to 30 minutes, while the new system can pinpoint targets in under a second. The stimulator induces currents on the brain’s surface to stimulate neural cells and improve brain function.
Clinical Trial Results
Clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of this targeted approach. After two weeks of treatment, the group targeted using the SCAN achieved a treatment efficacy rate of 55.5 percent, significantly higher than the 22.2 percent rate observed in the control group, which was targeted at nearby brain areas. These results suggest a potential for individualized, non-invasive treatment options.
Expanding Access to Treatment
Since 2025, five hospitals across China—in Beijing, Henan, Guangdong, Zhejiang, and Sichuan—have begun utilizing this new equipment to treat patients. The cost of each TMS session is significantly lower than traditional brain surgery, at less than 200 yuan (approximately 30 U.S. Dollars) compared to around 200,000 yuan for surgery. A typical treatment course involves two to three weeks of sessions, repeated every six months, and long-term treatment may potentially slow disease progression.
A Patient’s Story
Hu Ying, 61, experienced significant improvement after undergoing treatment. Diagnosed in 2018, she faced a decline in health, including loss of facial expression, falls, and difficulty swallowing. After an 18-day course of treatment, she regained her ability to walk independently and saw improvements in speech and swallowing. Four years of ongoing treatment have allowed her to resume activities she previously enjoyed, such as singing karaoke.
Her husband, Jiang Ke, shared that the treatment has enabled them to fulfill long-held travel dreams, including a trip to Europe. “We never imagined we could still do this,” he said.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the somato-cognitive action network (SCAN)?
The SCAN is a brain network located in the brain’s cortex that links key brain regions involved in movement control, including the basal ganglia and thalamus. Researchers found that connections within this network are abnormally strengthened in patients with Parkinson’s disease.
How does the new brain circuit stimulator work?
The stimulator uses transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to induce currents on the brain’s surface, stimulating neural cells and improving brain function. It utilizes Personalized Brain Functional Sectors (pBFS) and a real-time navigation system to achieve millimeter-level accuracy in targeting treatment areas.
What were the results of the clinical trials?
After two weeks of treatment, the SCAN target group achieved a treatment efficacy rate of 55.5 percent, compared to only 22.2 percent in the control group that targeted nearby brain areas.
As research continues, could this targeted approach offer hope for a better quality of life for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease?