A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal
Leveraging Artificial Intelligence to Optimize Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Long COVID Management: A Forward-Looking Perspective
Authors: Rudroff, Thorsten; Rainio, Oona; Klén, Riku
Publisher: MDPI
Publication year: 2024
Journal: Brain Sciences
Journal name in source: Brain sciences
Journal acronym: Brain Sci
Article number: 831
Volume: 14
Issue: 8
ISSN: 2076-3425
eISSN: 2076-3425
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14080831
Web address : https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14080831
Self-archived copy’s web address: https://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/457823591
Long COVID (Coronavirus disease), affecting millions globally, presents unprecedented challenges to healthcare systems due to its complex, multifaceted nature and the lack of effective treatments. This perspective review explores the potential of artificial intelligence (AI)-guided transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) as an innovative approach to address the urgent need for effective Long COVID management. The authors examine how AI could optimize tDCS protocols, enhance clinical trial design, and facilitate personalized treatment for the heterogeneous manifestations of Long COVID. Key areas discussed include AI-driven personalization of tDCS parameters based on individual patient characteristics and real-time symptom fluctuations, the use of machine learning for patient stratification, and the development of more sensitive outcome measures in clinical trials. This perspective addresses ethical considerations surrounding data privacy, algorithmic bias, and equitable access to AI-enhanced treatments. It also explores challenges and opportunities for implementing AI-guided tDCS across diverse healthcare settings globally. Future research directions are outlined, including the need for large-scale validation studies and investigations of long-term efficacy and safety. The authors argue that while AI-guided tDCS shows promise for addressing the complex nature of Long COVID, significant technical, ethical, and practical challenges remain. They emphasize the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, patient-centered approaches, and a commitment to global health equity in realizing the potential of this technology. This perspective article provides a roadmap for researchers, clinicians, and policymakers involved in developing and implementing AI-guided neuromodulation therapies for Long COVID and potentially other neurological and psychiatric conditions.
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Funding information in the publication:
This research received no external funding.
