Developing a new technique for precise brain control using sound waves
Official title: Sonogenetics 2.0
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10881982 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new, gentle way to safely stimulate specific brain cells using sound waves and tiny bubbles, which could help improve treatments for brain conditions without needing 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 start | July 15, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $609,145 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS128461-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10881982 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals with neurological conditions that could benefit from targeted brain modulation techniques.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions that do not involve specific neuronal targeting or those who are not suitable for ultrasound-based interventions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating Sonogenetics 2.0, an advanced method for noninvasive brain modulation that targets specific cell types in the brain without the need for surgery. It uses low-intensity focused ultrasound combined with microbubbles to deliver viral vectors that can activate neurons in targeted brain regions. By allowing for precise control of neuronal activity, this technique aims to overcome current limitations in neuromodulation technologies. The approach is designed to be safe and effective, minimizing systemic exposure while maximizing the precision of brain interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for various brain disorders by enabling targeted neuromodulation without invasive procedures.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research in neuromodulation techniques has shown promise, but this specific approach using Sonogenetics 2.0 is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Hong — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Chen, Hong
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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.