Effects of low intensity repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in murine models: Impact on neuroplasticity, neurochemistry and behaviour

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation tool that has potential to treat neurologic and psychiatric conditions. However, clinical protocols have been developed without understanding rTMS mechanisms at the cellular and molecular level. This thesis describes a method to deliver low intensity rTMS in awake and behaving murine models. Findings demonstrate that intrinsic brain state at the time of stimulation influences outcomes, including the structure and function of abnormal and healthy circuits, cortical excitation-inhibition balance and subcortical dopaminergic and serotonergic systems. The work increases understanding of rTMS mechanisms and suggests novel therapeutic approaches.