AI-Driven VR Therapy for Cognitive Impairment: Building Neuroplasticity Through Attention, NPC Engagement, and Brain-Motor Games
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AI-Driven Virtual Reality Therapeutic Medicine for Patients with Cognitive Impairment: Increasing Neuroplasticity through Attention Exercises, Non-Player Character Engagement, and Brain-Motor Game Modulation

Presenter: Anthony Faiola, PhD, MFA, MA, MA

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As digital health transitions from supportive monitoring to direct non-pharmacological intervention, medical virtual and extended reality (VR/XR) is emerging as a targeted modality for structural and functional cognitive recovery. This presentation details seven years of clinical translational research focused on AI-driven virtual reality therapeutics (VRx) and their measurable impact on cognitive impairment across complex neurological populations. Dr. Anthony Faiola will present the theoretical mechanisms and clinical deployment of his VR Cognitive Rehabilitation Training (VR-CRT) platform, which integrates selective attention exercises, interactive non-player character (NPC) engagement, and dynamic brain-motor game modulation to induce targeted neurotransmitter stimulation and leverage neuroplasticity.

Session Highlights:

  • Translational Foundation & Feasibility: Insights and cognitive recovery outcomes from a single-arm, quasi-experimental pilot study investigating VR-CRT in brain cancer patients experiencing mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
  • Multi-Center Clinical Evaluation: Comparative trial designs, feasibility data, and observations across four active clinical cohorts—neuro-oncology (University of Cincinnati Health), acute delirium (Indiana University Health), dementia (UC Health), and post-stroke recovery (Sapienza University of Rome).
  • AI Modulation & Mechanics: The implementation of real-time machine learning algorithms to dynamically adjust cognitive load, NPC interaction patterns, and sensorimotor challenge to maximize individual therapeutic efficacy.
  • Multimodal Precision Health (VRx 2.0): An overview of an active collaborative study with the Barrow Neurological Institute integrating the VRx 2.0 platform with plasma p-Tau217 biomarker tracking, physical activity monitoring, and time-restricted eating regimens.

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The Voices of XR speaker series is presented by the Center for eXtended Reality, in partnership with Mary Ann Mavrinac Studio X, University Libraries. This series is made possible by Kathy McMorran Murray.