Translational Biomagnetics & Neurometry

The Houston Methodist Magnetic Stimulation Device Core Lab develops and provides for research purposes unique prototypes of noninvasive portable wearable magnetic stimulators based on a new multifocal magnetic stimulation technology invented by Santosh Helekar, MD, PhD of Houston Methodist Research Institute in collaboration with Henning Voss, PhD of Weill-Cornell Medicine.

This platform technology involves generation of oscillating magnetic fields (OMF) using strong permanent magnets rotated by battery-operated high speed electric motors. Presently, two human use OMF-based device prototypes have been developed at Houston Methodist Magnetic Stimulation Device Core Lab – Transcranial Rotating Permanent Magnet Stimulator (TRPMS) and Oncomagnetic Device (OMD).

Director:

Santosh A. Helekar, MD, PhD
sahelekar@houstonmethodist.org
713.441.4389

TRPMS is used for neuromodulation. The magnetic stimuli of TRPMS are like those delivered by existing FDA-approved repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulators (rTMS), but they are milder in strength, and they involve programmable intermittent oscillatory patterns rather than phasic stimulus pulses. Repeated stimulation with OMD, using stimulation patterns and configurations distinct from those of TRPMS, is being tested in ongoing studies as potential treatment for glioblastoma of the brain and other cancers. The stimulator components of both devices can be worn on the head either as a cap (TRPMS microstimulators) or as a helmet (OMD oncoscillators). OMD oncoscillators can also be worn on clothing for investigating research treatments for solid extracranial cancers.

Technical

• Construct TRPMS and OMD prototypes with customized gear.
• Design and construct OMF generating equipment for cell culture and animal studies.
• Test, repair and maintain all OMF device prototypes and equipment.
• Train researchers/research subjects in the proper use of these devices and equipment.

Professional

• Offer consultation on the experimental design of studies involving OMF device prototypes.
• Offer advice on the development of treatment protocols involving OMF stimulation.

Technical Capabilities

Physical parameters of both devices, such as strength, frequency and pattern of stimulation are customizable and can be programmed into their controlling microprocessor-based hardware. The hardware console can in turn be controlled with a personalized app developed in house for an electronic tablet or smartphone. It operates on a 9–12 V rechargeable battery, allowing the device to be portable during stimulation treatment. An advanced version of the hardware includes a remote device use monitoring system that provides real time feedback of device operation to the researchers and Houston Methodist Magnetic Stimulation Device Core Lab personnel by secure text messaging.

Laboratory Applications

The core lab has also developed OMF generating laboratory apparatuses for cell culture and animal experiments.

Purchasing and Regulatory Requirements

All prototypes can be purchased through an iLab link by approved researchers. An investigational device exemption or non-significant risk determination is required for use of either device in specific research projects in human subjects on a case-by-case basis.