Focused ultrasound to improve memory in amnestic mild cognitive impairment
Modulation of Hippocampal Circuitry and Memory Function with Focused Ultrasound in Amnestic MCI
This project uses painless, low‑intensity focused ultrasound inside an MRI to stimulate deep memory regions of the brain and help improve memory for people with amnestic mild cognitive impairment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11171355 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
I would receive low‑intensity focused ultrasound (LIFUP) targeted to deep memory areas such as the entorhinal cortex and hippocampus while inside an MRI scanner. The team will use the MRI to monitor blood flow and functional connections in my memory network in real time during and after the stimulation. My memory will be tested with standard behavioral tasks to see whether the ultrasound changes performance. The researchers have early data showing increased perfusion and connectivity with LIFUP, but the approach is still experimental.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people diagnosed with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (early memory problems likely related to Alzheimer’s disease) who can safely undergo MRI and ultrasound procedures.
Not a fit: People with more advanced Alzheimer’s dementia, non‑amnestic cognitive impairment, or those who cannot have an MRI (for example due to implanted metal devices) are unlikely to benefit from this intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could provide a noninvasive way to boost memory or slow memory decline in people with amnestic MCI.
How similar studies have performed: Invasive deep brain stimulation of the entorhinal cortex showed memory benefits in a small number of patients, and early pilot data for LIFUP show promising changes in blood flow and connectivity, but noninvasive focused ultrasound remains experimental.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bookheimer, Susan Y — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Bookheimer, Susan Y
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.