Neuronale Plastizität und Neuromodulation in der Kinderneurologie

Background: Neuronal plasticity is a core mechanism for learning and memory. Abnormal neuronal plasticity has emerged as a key mechanism in many neurological and neuropediatric diseases. Objective: Chances and perspectives of neuromodulation techniques in neurological and neuropediatric diseases with altered neuronal plasticity. Material and methods: Presentation and discussion of own results of neuronal plasticity investigations in patients with neurodevelopmental disorders including RASopathies, autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (GTS). Results: The results of neuronal plasticity studies in patients with RASopathies, ASD and GTS underline the pathophysiological relevance of abnormal neuronal plasticity in these diseases. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a useful tool to examine and also induce neuronal plasticity in these patients. Conclusion: Neuronal plasticity appears to be an important pathophysiological factor in neuronal developmental disorders and can be investigated using TMS. New and innovative techniques may offer novel approaches for individualized TMS applications, particularly in children with neuropediatric conditions.