This podcast interviews Dr. Casey Halpern, a neurosurgeon specializing in deep brain stimulation, about his research on treating eating disorders and movement disorders. The discussion covers the use of deep brain stimulation and other techniques to target specific brain regions, like the nucleus accumbens, involved in compulsive behaviors and cravings. Dr. Halpern explains how his team identifies "craving cells" during surgery and uses real-time stimulation to disrupt binge eating patterns. The interview also touches upon non-invasive methods like transcranial magnetic stimulation and focused ultrasound, highlighting their potential and limitations. The episode concludes by emphasizing the importance of patient self-awareness in managing these conditions, alongside the potential of AI in predicting and mitigating impulsive behaviors.
