A dual mode pulsed electro-magnetic cell stimulator

Abstract

This thesis presents the design and test of a dual-modality cell stimulator. The stimulator generates pulsing electric and magnetic fields at programmable rates and intensities. The target application is the stimulation of bone and muscle cells. While electric and magnetic stimulators have been reported before, this is the first device that combines both modalities. The ability of the dual stimulation to target bone and muscle tissue simultaneously has the potential to improve the therapeutic treatment of osteoporosis and sarcopenia. The device is fully programmable and easy to use and can run from a battery or a power supply. In-vitro tests show a 4% increase in protein synthesis 24 hours after the stimulation. These levels are comparable to heat shock stimulation.