A treatment for depression, using eye stimulation has been successful in mice.
The researchers caused stimulation of the corneal surface of the eye - known as transcorneal electrical stimulation (TES) - that activates brain pathways. The result was an easing of depression-like symptoms and reduced stress hormones in mice that were suffering from depression.
The research, reported in the New York Academy of Sciences journal was led by scientists from the University of Hong Kong (pictured), and Guangdong University of Chinese Medicine, China.
“These research findings pave the way for new therapeutic opportunities to develop novel treatment for patients suffering from treatment-resistant depression and dementia. Nevertheless, clinical trials must be conducted to validate the efficacy and safety,” said Professor Chan Ying-shing.
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