Research at MultiMedica: Pioneering Neuromodulation in Metabolic Diseases

Studies conducted at IRCCS MultiMedica have shown that this non-invasive technique can promote significant weight loss while positively influencing the brain mechanisms involved in hedonic hunger and decision-making related to eating behaviour.

These findings have led to the development of an innovative method and the filing of a patent, now owned by MultiMedica, opening new opportunities for technology transfer and the clinical application of neuromodulation in metabolic diseases.

This research is part of MultiMedica's broader commitment to clinical innovation, where the integration of patient care, scientific research, and technological development is a key driver in creating new models of healthcare.

The Technologies Under Investigation

• Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS)

  rTMS uses non-invasive magnetic pulses to modulate the activity of specific brain regions involved in appetite regulation, motivation, and food-related decision-making.

  Its aim is to improve the regulation of the biological mechanisms that influence eating behaviour and metabolism.

• Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS)

  The project also evaluates the efficacy of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS), a neuromodulation technique that delivers low-intensity electrical currents to modify brain activity.

  Thanks to its ease of use, this technology may become a widely accessible option to support obesity treatment in the future.

Research Objectives

• Confirm the efficacy and safety of rTMS for the treatment of obesity, with or without type 2 diabetes.

• Evaluate the efficacy and safety of tDCS in the same clinical settings.

• Develop innovative, personalised neuromodulation protocols.

• Improve understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms regulating hunger and satiety.

• Promote the translation of research findings into clinical and industrial applications through technology transfer.

• Support the development of new prevention and treatment strategies for metabolic diseases.

From Research to Patient Care: How Innovation Begins at MultiMedica

The project "Neuromodulation Methodologies to Treat Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes" is a concrete example of translational research, a process that starts with clinical observation, progresses through scientific investigation, and aims to generate new therapeutic solutions that can be implemented in everyday clinical practice.

The goal is not only to generate new scientific knowledge, but also to develop innovative tools capable of improving the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting millions of people worldwide.

By bringing together clinicians, researchers, engineers, technology companies, and institutions, MultiMedica is helping shape a healthcare model increasingly focused on innovation and personalised medicine, strengthening the integration of patient care, scientific research, and technology transfer.

The Role of the Italian National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR)

This project is funded under the Italian National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) and contributes to its objectives of strengthening biomedical research and accelerating technology transfer, supporting the development of innovative, high-impact solutions for public health.

Project Title: Neuromodulation Methodologies to Treat Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes

Principal Investigator: Professor Livio Luzi

Lead Institution: IRCCS MultiMedica

Project Code: PNRR-POC-2023-12377828

Project Duration: 30 August 2024 – 29 August 2026

Participating Operational Units

• Department of Endocrinology, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS MultiMedica

• Department of Clinical Nutrition, "Renato Dulbecco" University Hospital of Catanzaro