Thailand scientists at Chulalongkorn University have successfully designed lightweight gloves that can help reduce tremors in patients with Parkinson's disease. The gloves, equipped with accelerometers and gyroscopes, detect characteristic shaking motions associated with Parkinson's tremors. Upon detection, a Bluetooth signal is sent to a battery-powered stimulator that applies a gentle electric current to the hand muscles, effectively counteracting the tremors.

Led by professors Roongroj Bhidayasiri, MD, and Onanong Phokaewvarangkul, MD, PhD, the research team has been working on developing the gloves since 2014. The initial prototypes were large and cumbersome, but the fifth-generation gloves are now lightweight and easier to wear, resembling a strap around the palm.

According to the Chulalongkorn University press release, the main objective is to make the gloves "smaller and better looking," aiming for a design that is more of an accessory or part of the outfit rather than a medical device. However, the functionality of reducing tremors, the stability of electrical current, and the ease of data upload will remain intact.

The gloves connect to patients' mobile phones, allowing real-time monitoring of tremors, which can be utilized by both patients and clinicians. It is emphasized that the gloves must be worn continuously to maintain the stimulation of the hand muscles with electrical current. If the device is turned off, the tremors will return.

In terms of cost, the gloves are expected to be considerably less expensive than traditional approaches such as medication or surgery. The estimated cost of production for a set of gloves is around 30,000 to 40,000 baht, equivalent to approximately $1,000.

Although the gloves are currently available at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital in Bangkok, the team plans to collaborate with entrepreneurs to further refine and distribute the devices. They are also looking into expanding their research to develop gloves that detect and reduce tremors in other parts of the body.

Over 50 Parkinson's patients have already used the gloves at the hospital, and the scientists hope to make them more widely available for individuals with tremor-related disorders. Patients interested in testing the gloves at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital can contact Panthira Kuwattanasuchati at [email protected]

The team expresses their gratitude for the support received from various organizations, including Chulalongkorn University, the government, the private sector, and generous benefactors who have sponsored the development of these gloves. Their contributions have made it possible to provide patients with greater access to this innovative treatment option.