Deep Brain Stimulation: Pioneering Strategies for Improving Functional Performance and Mitigating Aggressiveness in Patients with Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) represents a sophisticated neurosurgical approach gaining recognition for its potential in treating a variety of neurological and neurodevelopmental disorders. This method involves the electrical stimulation of targeted brain regions to modulate neural activity and its efficacy is notably recognized in treating movement disorders associated with Parkinson's disease (PD), essential tremor, dystonia, and other neurological conditions. Lately, more evidence is rising on applying DBS to treat neurodevelopmental disorders, but this field is still underexplored.

This Research Topic aims to catalyze in-depth scientific discussion on the use of DBS to reduce uncontrolled aggression and improve adaptive functioning in patients with neurodevelopmental disorders. The inherent complexity and diversity of these conditions necessitate insights from a wide range of disciplines, including neurology, neurosurgery, pediatrics, neuropsychology, and psychiatry. Discussions should cover a broad spectrum, from foundational research to clinical applications; delving into the mechanisms behind DBS and the refinement of stimulation protocols to optimize benefits.

We welcome submissions that delve into various aspects of DBS in neurodevelopmental disorders, including but not limited to:

• Understand the neurophysiological, neuropsychological, and clinical mechanisms by which DBS improves functional performance.
• Assessing the effectiveness of DBS in reducing aggressiveness in affected populations, with and without associated comorbidities.
• Developing personalized DBS parameter settings for better treatment outcomes.
• Development and standardization of pre- and post-surgical clinical protocols that increase the safety and effectiveness of DBS.
• Comparative analyses of DBS in pediatric versus adult populations with neurodevelopmental disorders.
• Investigating the impact of DBS on the quality of life for pediatric and adult patients.

Submissions can range from original research and reviews to clinical trials and case reports. Studies that bridge biological, psychological, and social aspects of DBS in the context of neurodevelopmental disorders are particularly encouraged.

Keywords: Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Pediatric Neurology, Functional Performance Improvement, Aggressiveness Reduction

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.