A new method for delivering drugs directly to the brain using focused ultrasound.
Focused ultrasound-mediated intranasal brain drug delivery technique (FUSIN)
This study is testing a new way to deliver medicine directly to the brain using focused ultrasound and tiny bubbles, which could help people with brain conditions by getting the drugs where they’re needed without surgery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11123228 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel technique called Focused ultrasound-mediated intranasal brain drug delivery (FUSIN) that aims to improve how drugs are delivered to the brain. By using focused ultrasound in combination with microbubbles, this method allows for noninvasive and targeted delivery of medications directly to affected areas in the brain, bypassing the blood-brain barrier. The study will first explore the underlying mechanisms of this technique in mouse models and then optimize it for use in larger animals, ultimately aiming for clinical application in humans.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would include patients with brain tumors or other central nervous system disorders who are seeking innovative treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to the central nervous system or those who are not eligible for experimental treatments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for brain tumors and other central nervous system diseases with fewer side effects.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using focused ultrasound for drug delivery, but this specific approach is relatively novel and still under investigation.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Hong — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Chen, Hong
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.