Chapter
The Science Behind Medicine
50:49 - 54:50 (04:01)
The field of medicine is focused on identifying pathways in the body that can be manipulated for symptom relief. Treatments may have originally been developed for one purpose, but end up being used for a completely different ailment.
Clips
The Vagus Nerve was initially used as an epilepsy treatment but is now widely used for depression simply because it is accessible.
50:49 - 52:06 (01:17)
Summary
The Vagus Nerve was initially used as an epilepsy treatment but is now widely used for depression simply because it is accessible. Though it's not irrational, it may be surprising that medicine goes in and stimulates pathways just because they are there.
ChapterThe Science Behind Medicine
EpisodeDr. Karl Deisseroth: Understanding & Healing the Mind
PodcastHuberman Lab
The test pilot mentality in medicine has led to many advances, despite the fact that many treatments don't work and there is immense suffering.
52:06 - 52:46 (00:40)
Summary
The test pilot mentality in medicine has led to many advances, despite the fact that many treatments don't work and there is immense suffering. This experimental approach has led to successes such as kidney dialysis, which has helped keep many people alive.
ChapterThe Science Behind Medicine
EpisodeDr. Karl Deisseroth: Understanding & Healing the Mind
PodcastHuberman Lab
The application of optogenetics in vagus nerve stimulation could help in achieving more precise stimulation methods compared to the current electrode-based method.
52:46 - 54:50 (02:04)
Summary
The application of optogenetics in vagus nerve stimulation could help in achieving more precise stimulation methods compared to the current electrode-based method. The use of optogenetics could also prevent any side effects caused by widespread electrical stimulation, such as vocal changes.