News

Nature still hides numerous ingenious solutions. DMT, or dimethyltryptamine is a natural psychoactive molecule found in many plants and mammals. According to an article published in Science Advances, DMT was found to reduce the harmful effects of stroke in animal models and cell culture experiments. The study was authored by Hungarianresearchers from the HUN-REN BRC Institute of Biophysics and Semmelweis University Heart and Vascular Centre.

DMT is also present in the human brain, and it is currently undergoing clinical trials to aid recovery of brain function after stroke. However, its exact mechanism of action had not been fully understood until now.

According to the authors of the study, the research teams found that DMT significantly reduced infarct volume and edema formation in a rat stroke model. In both animal experiments and cell culture models, DMT treatment restored the structure and function of the damaged blood-brain barrier and improved the function of astroglial cells. Furthermore, the psychoactive compound inhibited the production of inflammatory cytokines in brain endothelial cells and peripheral immune cells, while reduced the activation of brain microglia cells through Sigma-1 receptors.

The therapeutic options currently available for stroke are very limited. The dual action of DMT, protecting the blood-brain barrier while reducing brain inflammation, offers a novel, complex approach that could complement existing treatments.

Since current stroke therapies do not always result in full recovery, a DMT-based treatment may represent a promising new alternative, mainly in combination with existing methods. The recent findings from researchers in Szeged and Budapest support the development of a therapy that goes beyond the limitations of conventional stroke treatment. Clinical trials have already begun abroad, and investigation on the long-term effects of DMT are currently ongoing, but there is still a long way to go before it reaches everyday medicine.

For stroke survivors with severe upper limb paralysis, the challenge of engaging in rehabilitation is profound. Conventional electrical stimulation (ES) methods that rely on detecting residual voluntary muscle activity, such as electromyography (EMG)-triggered systems, are often unsuitable for these patients. However, a manual ES technique known as finger-equipped electrode electrical stimulation (FEE-ES) has shown promising potential. This approach allows therapists to directly and precisely control the delivery of electrical pulses, effectively reintroducing the element of patient intention into the therapeutic process.

FEE-ES is a therapist-controlled functional electrical stimulation method where the clinician wears an electrode on a finger, akin to a thimble or finger cap. This allows the therapist to manually apply and release the electrical stimulus to the patient’s skin with precise timing. By placing conventional self-adhesive electrodes on the affected limb, the therapist uses the finger-electrode to deliver the electrical pulses. This allows the therapist to precisely synchronise the electrical stimulation with the patient’s motor intention, even in cases where no voluntary muscle movement or detectable EMG signal is present. This feature engages the patient’s brain in the motor relearning process from the very beginning of rehabilitation.

Early clinical studies have shown that FEE-ES can be feasible, safe, and potentially effective for severe upper limb paresis. In a 2012 study on chronic stroke patients, those receiving FEE-ES showed greater improvement in upper extremity function compared to a control group. A  retrospective case series published this year demonstrated that FEE-ES in the acute phase of stroke was feasible, well-tolerated and associated with significant improvements in upper limb motor function in patients with severe paresis.

The synchronisation of electrical stimulation with the patient’s motor intent is believed to promote neuroplasticity, strengthening the neural pathways and encouraging long-term functional recovery. A primary advantage of FEE-ES is its ability to bridge the gap between intent and movement, a critical aspect of recovery that is often inaccessible to severely impaired stroke survivors using conventional ES systems.

FEE-ES is a clinical technique, not a standalone commercial product available for individual purchase in the UK. The implementation of FEE-ES depends on a qualified physiotherapist or occupational therapist using standard electrical stimulation equipment in a controlled, clinical setting. Therefore, its cost is integrated into the therapy sessions themselves, which vary depending on clinical setting, location, and coverage by the NHS or private insurance. Unlike an off-the-shelf device, FEE-ES is a specialised treatment modality that requires skilled professional application.

For many stroke survivors, regaining the use of their arm and hand is a significant challenge on the road to recovery. Intensive, repetitive and personalised therapy is key, but can be difficult to access consistently. Thecon Technology (HK) Limited, founded by researchers from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), has developed an innovative solution to this problem: the Mobilexo Arm. This wearable hybrid system combines robotics and functional electrical stimulation (FES) to accelerate and assist upper limb rehab.

The Mobilexo Arm is a portable, three-in-one rehab instrument for the paretic upper limb, designed to be used both in clinical settings and by patients at home, Unlike older FES devices with static patterns, the Mobilexo Arm uses electromyography (EMG) to detect residual electrical signals in the user’s muscles. This allows patients to control the device with their own intent, strengthening the brain’s feedback loop and encouraging neuroplasticity. It incorporates hybrid soft, inflatable components that provide mechanical assistance to the elbow, wrist and fingers. This offers a more natural and comfortable alternative to the heavy, rigid robotic arms often found in clinics.

The device provides targeted Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) to activate and strengthen muscles, improving coordination and sensory awareness in the affected limb. An accompanying mobile app allows patients and therapists to monitor progress remotely, track rehabilitation data in real-time, and access a variety of gamified exercises, making training more engaging and effective.

As a cutting-edge medical device, the Mobilexo Arm is not currently available for direct purchase by individuals in the UK. Thecon Technology’s current business model focuses on partnerships with hospitals and clinics. The commercialisation path for such devices typically involves extensive regulatory approvals, so its availability in the UK market would require passing these stringent tests first.

While a specific price for the UK has not been announced, the Mobilexo Arm Pro version is listed at a substantial cost in other regions. However, reports have indicated that the company is also working on a cheaper, home-based version for direct purchase by patients. For now, interested patients in the UK would need to inquire with their local stroke rehabilitation centres or explore participation in clinical trials if they become available.

The Mobilexo Arm’s main advantage lies in its hybrid design and EMG-driven control. By combining the strengths of FES and robotics into one wearable device, it offers a more sophisticated, responsive, and comfortable therapy experience.

The active participation required from the patient, guided by their own muscle signals, is far more effective at promoting neuroplasticity and functional recovery than passive, pre-set stimulation. The portability and engaging app-based exercises also make it easier for survivors to perform the frequent, high-intensity training crucial for regaining upper limb function, extending their rehabilitation beyond the clinical setting.

Can eating more fibre really help prevent a stroke? The evidence suggests it can. New evidence from a meta-analysis published in the American Heart Association journal Stroke further solidifies this link. The findings offer a simple, powerful message: a diet richer in fibre is a diet that better protects your brain.

Dietary fibre, the part of plant foods your body cannot digest, has long been known for its digestive health benefits. However, its influence extends far beyond the gut, impacting crucial cardiovascular risk factors such as blood pressure and cholesterol. A high fibre diet may also contribute to better weight management by promoting a feeling of fullness, which in turn benefits overall cardiovascular health. The new meta-analysis reinforces this, revealing that for every seven-gram increase in daily fibre intake, there was a seven percent reduction in the risk of first-time stroke.

The implication of this research is particularly encouraging because a seven-gram increase is a small, achievable change for most people. It does not require a complete overhaul of your eating habits. This can be as straightforward as swapping white bread for whole grain, adding an extra serving of vegetables or a piece of fruit to your meals, or incorporating legumes like beans and lentils into your diet.

The connection between high fibre intake and a lower stroke risk likely involves several mechanisms. Fibre can help lower blood pressure and ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol, two major risk factors for stroke. Certain types of soluble fibre can form a gel-like substance in the digestive system that slows the absorption of cholesterol and sugar into the bloodstream. Furthermore, fibre helps regulate blood sugar and can support a healthy weight, both of which are important for stroke prevention.

For people looking to reduce their stroke risk, increasing dietary fibre is a practical and accessible step. This research confirms that making small, consistent choices can have a meaningful impact on your long-term health. By focusing on whole-grains, fruits and vegetables, you are not just nourishing your body but also actively working to safeguard your brain.

While functional electrical stimulation (FES) has been a valuable tool in stroke rehab for decades now, advancements in tech are opening doors to more sophisticated and effective therapies. One such innovation is NeuroSkin from Kurage, an AI-powered neuroprosthesis designed to help stroke survivors regain their walking ability and independence.

NeuroSkin is a wearable FES system that integrates smart textile technology with artificial intelligence. Instead of manually applying electrodes, stroke survivors wear specialised garments, such as trousers, which have embedded dry electrodes and sensors. These sensors continuously monitor the user’s gait in real time. This data is then analysed by an AI processing unit, typically housed in a vest worn alongside the garment.

Based on its analysis of the individual’s movement patterns, the AI precisely times and delivers electrical stimulation to the specific muscle groups in the affected leg that need assistance. This helps to activate and strengthen those muscles, facilitating a more natural and symmetrical walking pattern.

The core benefit of NeuroSkin lies in its ability to provide personalised, real-time assistance during walking. Unlike traditional FES systems that often rely on pre-set stimulation patterns, NeuroSkin’s AI adapts to the individual’s unique gait, adjusting stimulation timing and intensity on the fly. This dynamic approach aims to encourage neuroplasticity and more effectively re-establish the connection between the brain’s intention to move and the actual muscle response.

In a retrospective multicenter feasibility study, stroke patients using NeuroSkin showed promising results, including statistically significant improvements in walking speed, endurance, balance and ambulation level. These improvements exceeded clinically meaningful thresholds, suggesting a substantial positive impact on the patient’s quality of life. The system’s excellent usability, rated highly by therapists in the study, further supports its potential for integration into routine rehabilitation.

As of late 2023, NeuroSkin is primarily accessible through specialised rehabilitation centres and clinical trials rather than being available for direct purchase by individuals. Access in the UK is typically through a leasing arrangement with clinics, with an estimated cost of around £5,000 per month. This cost usually includes the use of the device and associated therapy sessions under clinical

The integration of AI and wearable technology in FES, as exemplified by NeuroSkin, offers a significant advantage over conventional FES. By automating and personalising the stimulation process, it addresses key limitations of older FES devices, such as the need for manual electrode placement and parameter tuning. This allows therapists to focus more on guiding the rehabilitation process and supporting the patient, while the technology handles the intricate details of muscle stimulation.

The wearable nature of the system also paves the way for more intensive, home-based therapy, potentially maximising a stroke survivor’s recovery potential by allowing for consistent, high-quality training beyond the confines of the clinic. In essence, the point is to make stroke rehab more targeted, efficient and ultimately more effective in helping survivors regain crucial motor functions.

A recent meta-analysis which has just been published in the journal Neurology. has brought to light a fascinating association between blood type and the risk of early-onset stroke… a condition affecting individuals under the age of 60. While much is known about the risk factors for stroke in older adults, the causes in younger populations are less understood, making this new insight a promising step forward in preventive medicine.

The study, which compiled data from 48 genetic studies involving nearly 17,000 stroke patients and over 600,000 healthy controls, revealed that individuals with the A1 subgroup of blood type A have a 16% higher risk of experiencing an early-onset stroke. This finding was particularly pronounced in the younger adult group, suggesting that genetic factors related to blood type may play a more significant role in early-onset stroke compared to strokes that occur later in life.

Conversely, the research offered some reassuring news for those with blood type O; the meta-analysis found that individuals with blood type O have a slightly lower risk of stroke. Researchers hypothesise that this may be due to blood type O having lower levels of clotting factors, like von Willebrand factor and factor VIII, which could provide a protective effect against unwanted blood clots.

It is crucial to interpret these findings with a degree of caution. While the link is statistically significant, the increased risk is modest, and individuals with type A blood should not be alarmed. This is not a deterministic finding, and lifestyle factors remain the dominant force in overall stroke risk. Modifiable risk factors, such as managing blood pressure, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly and avoiding smoking, have a far greater impact on your risk profile.

The biological mechanisms behind this association are still under investigation. Researchers speculate that differences in blood-clotting factors, platelets and other circulating proteins related to blood type might be at play. This new piece of the puzzle, however, opens new avenues for research into the unique pathology of early-onset stroke, a condition that deserves more scientific attention.

The emergence of neuromodulation therapies, which aim to enhance the brain’s intrinsic capacity for recovery (neuroplasticity), offers new avenues for improving outcomes in chronic stroke. One such device is the Portable Neuromodulation Stimulator (PoNS) developed by Helius Medical Technologies. The PoNS device utilises a novel, non-invasive method of translingual neurostimulation (TLNS) to augment the effects of physical rehabilitation.

The PoNS device consists of a handheld controller and a mouthpiece with a matrix of 143 gold-plated electrodes. When placed on the tongue, these electrodes deliver gentle electrical stimulation that activates cranial nerves V (trigeminal) and VII (facial). These nerves possess rich neural connections to the brainstem and cerebellum, key regions for regulating motor control, balance and coordination. The stimulation generates a cascade of neural impulses that travel to these areas, promoting neuroplastic changes within the central nervous system. When coupled with targeted physical therapy, this amplified neural activity is believed to facilitate the formation of new neural pathways, allowing the brain to compensate for damage sustained during a stroke. This process supports the retraining of motor skills and the recovery of lost function.

For stroke survivors, the PoNS device is integrated into a structured, intensive 14-week therapy program that combines both in-clinic and at-home use. Under the guidance of a trained therapist, patients engage in exercises focused on improving gait, balance, motor control and breathing. The PoNS device is typically used during these sessions, with the intensity of the stimulation adjusted by the patient based on their tolerance. Over the course of the therapy, the device helps maximise the neuroplastic benefits of the rehabilitation program. A key aspect is its portability, which allows for consistent, high-frequency rehabilitation outside of a clinical setting, empowering patients to take an active role in their recovery.

Clinical trials have indicated that the combination of PoNS therapy and physical rehabilitation can lead to significant improvements in functional outcomes for stroke survivors, particularly in gait and balance. For instance, a recent study demonstrated clinically meaningful improvements in gait speed and function in chronic stroke patients.

The availability of the PoNS device for stroke survivors varies significantly by region, as its approval is dependent on regulatory bodies.

• UK & Europe: In the UK and throughout the EU, the PoNS device is still considered an ‘investigational medical device’; meaning it is undergoing review by regulatory bodies and is not yet approved for general sale.
• Canada: The PoNS device has been authorised for use in Canada for treating gait and balance deficits associated with stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI) and multiple sclerosis (MS). Canadian stroke survivors who meet the eligibility criteria can access the device in authorised clinics as part of a supervised rehabilitation program.
• United States: As of late 2025, the PoNS device is not yet approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for stroke rehabilitation and remains an investigational device for this specific indication. Helius Medical Technologies submitted an application to the FDA in September 2025 for its use in chronic stroke patients, supported by data from its Stroke Registrational Programme. FDA approval for stroke is pending. It is, however, FDA-authorised for gait deficit in MS patients in the U.S.
• Other Regions: The PoNS device has also been approved for limited use in Australia for balance and gait issues related to MS and TBI when used alongside a therapeutic exercise programme.

The PoNS device represents an innovative application of non-invasive neurostimulation to enhance neuroplasticity and improve functional outcomes for stroke survivors. By delivering gentle electrical impulses to the tongue in conjunction with a targeted physical therapy programme, it offers a promising tool for addressing persistent gait and balance impairments. As research continues to build upon the evidence base for TLNS, regulatory approvals and broader accessibility for stroke recovery will be an important area to watch.

A new national campaign, ‘Every Second Counts,’ launched recently by the HSE in Ireland, is driving home a vital message: the moment you suspect a stroke is the moment you dial 999 or 112. Developed with the invaluable support of stroke survivors and community groups, this campaign aims to close the gap between symptom awareness and swift action.

In Ireland, the statistics are sobering; every year, approximately 7,500 people experience a stroke and over 90,000 people are living with the resulting disability. Stroke is a leading cause of acquired neurological disability in Ireland and the third leading cause of death. Despite these figures, a concerning number of patients (fewer than 50%) arrive at the hospital within three hours of symptom onset. This is a critical window for life-saving and disability-reducing treatments.

Professor Rónán Collins, HSE National Clinical Lead for Stroke, emphasises that ‘every second counts’. He notes that while public awareness of the F.A.S.T. symptoms has improved, hesitation before calling an ambulance remains a significant issue. The new campaign is designed to overcome this hesitation and ensure that immediate action is taken.

Siobhán McGrath, a 34-year-old stroke survivor, understands the importance of immediate action first-hand. As a former Dublin senior ladies’ football team player, she initially didn’t recognise the signs of her own stroke three years ago and waited before seeking help. She now knows that this delay impacted her recovery and is a passionate advocate for the campaign.

Beyond raising public awareness, the National Stroke Strategy is also making significant progress in early stroke rehabilitation. A new report, Early Supported Discharge (ESD) for Stroke 2022 to 2023, highlights the success of a program that allows stroke survivors to receive therapy, social work, and nursing support at home.

The ESD model enables survivors to leave the hospital sooner and begin their recovery in the comfort of their own homes. This not only promotes greater independence but also improves bed capacity in hospital stroke units. In 2023, over 800 people benefited from ESD, a substantial increase from 2019. The expansion of ESD teams across Ireland is a key component of the National Stroke Strategy’s commitment to delivering more care in people’s homes.

Fine Gael politician & Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, underscores the severity of stroke as a medical emergency and highlights the importance of quick treatment. With stroke incidence projected to rise in the coming decades, the Irish government is investing significantly in both public awareness and expanded services. This investment is aimed at ensuring more people can not only live longer after a stroke but also live to their full potential.

For stroke survivors, recovery doesn’t end when they leave the hospital. Recognising the variation in post-hospital care, the NHS is currently running a number of pilot programmes across the country to develop new models of community-based rehab. These innovative approaches focus on integrated, high-intensity and personalised support right in people’s own homes. Here is a look at how three pilot sites are leading the way:

Northamptonshire: Fostering independence and vocational success

In Northamptonshire, the pilot programme is built on the principle of seamless, coordinated care. A multi-disciplinary team provides an integrated approach, delivering intensive rehab in the patient’s home. The programme includes specialist support to help stroke survivors return to work, with OTs and other specialists working with employers and patients to facilitate a successful return to the workplace or explore alternative roles if necessary. Services are delivered quickly, with therapeutic care beginning within 24 hours of hospital discharge. This pilot also addresses the patient’s wider needs, including psychological well-being, providing resources such as a patient forum, online communities and face-to-face support groups. Furthermore, a ‘self-directed rehab pathway’ trains staff to deliver conversational coaching, equipping patients with the skills for ongoing self-management.

North Central London: A dynamic, roving support network

The North Central London pilot takes a mobile and flexible approach to support stroke survivors. It uses a dynamic, roving team of rehab assistants who work under the guidance of senior staff. This model has a number of features that provide tailored, holistic care. The team works to help patients get home as quickly as possible and ensures their living environment is optimised for successful rehab. Assistants provide flexible, in-home therapy that is designed to provide an extended and intensive rehab experience. The team also provides advocacy and support, recognising the wider impact of stroke on both the patient and their loved ones.

Northumbria: Prioritising psychological well-being

The Northumbria pilot site is addressing a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of stroke recovery: psychological well-being. The programme focuses on ensuring mental health receives the same priority as physical recovery, offering a number of services to achieve this. A senior clinical psychologist has been employed to oversee the service, providing expert support for survivors’ psychological needs. The pilot offers enhanced peer support to both patients and their families and carers, which provides a crucial network for sharing experiences and offering mutual encouragement. Northumbria is also extending and expanding its Early Supported Discharge services, allowing more patients to receive intensive rehab in the comfort of their own homes.

Each of these pilot sites offers a unique and valuable perspective on how to improve community-based stroke rehab. While the approaches differ, they share a commitment to more intensive, integrated, and out-of-hospital care. The robust evaluation of these programmes will provide crucial evidence to inform the future development of national stroke services, helping to improve outcomes and quality of life for UK stroke survivors.

The integration of Neuromersiv’s ‘Ulysses’ system represents a significant advancement in the tech-for-stroke space, offering a dedicated VR solution for upper-limb. The system’s design and therapeutic approach align with core neuroscientific principles, particularly concerning task-specific training, repetition, and motivation…

The Neuromersiv ‘Ulysses’ system is designed to be used by stroke survivors in a structured, repetitive, and highly engaging manner, ideally with guidance from a trained clinician. The therapy focuses on functional tasks in a virtual environment to promote neuroplasticity.

The process begins with a therapist assessing your specific needs and upper limb impairment. This determines the appropriate rehabilitation goals and how the system will be integrated into your overall therapy plan.

You then put on a wireless VR headset, such as a Meta Quest 2. The system uses the headset’s built-in hand-tracking technology, which means you don’t need to hold bulky controllers. Then, a virtual assistant within the software guides you through every step, making the process accessible even for users with no prior VR experience.

The core of the therapy involves engaging in simulated ADLs within a realistic virtual environment. The tasks are designed to be challenging but fairly fun, like washing dishes, sorting cutlery, and organizing cupboards and engaging in personal care activities. The tasks are all gamified with reward systems that encourage you to keep going and achieve your goals, providing a motivational boost that is often lacking in traditional therapy.

The system can track your movements in real-time and some users can also incorporate haptic gloves, to provide sensory feedback and assist with muscle activation. For survivors with more severe impairment, the system can be combined with a sleeve containing FES electrodes. The FES helps activate and strengthen muscles you can’t move voluntarily. For example, if you’re trying to grasp a virtual object but can’t, the FES can assist the movement, creating a feedback loop that helps the brain form new neural pathways.

The therapist can use a web-based dashboard to track your progress over sessions, which allows them to monitor your performance and adjust the therapy plan to best suit your needs. The system also allows clinicians to livestream your virtual reality experience to a phone or tablet. This enables them to provide remote assistance and guidance during home-based therapy sessions. Sessions are typically repetitive and intensive to maximise their effect on plasticity. For example, a pilot study used 25 sessions of 45 minutes over several weeks. If you’re interested in using the Ulysses system, the best first step would be to talk to your OT or physiotherapist. They can help determine if this technology is suitable for your specific needs and rehabilitation goals.

The Ulysses system is now commercially available in both Australia and the UK, following registration as a Class 1 software medical device with the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Neuromersiv has adopted a multi-tiered commercialisation strategy, focusing primarily on institutional sales to rehabilitation clinics and hospitals. This approach facilitates broader access through established healthcare providers, leveraging clinical oversight and integration into existing therapy programs.

Neuromersiv also offers access directly to individual end-users (B2C), a development with significant implications for home-based neurorehabilitation. The company’s co-founders have indicated a commitment to affordability, offering flexible monthly leasing options alongside direct purchase to make the system more accessible. However, specific, publicly listed costs for individual purchase or leasing are not readily available online and require direct contact with the company for a quote. This pricing model requires stroke survivors and caregivers to actively engage with the company to understand the financial implications for home-based use.