Guiding Cell Activity with Sound Waves
Sonogenetic Remote Control of Cellular Function
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · NIH-11145740
This project is creating a new way to control cells deep inside the body using sound waves, which could help us better understand and treat various conditions.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PASADENA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11145740 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Scientists are developing a new method to see and control cells deep within the body, similar to how light is used in some research, but with sound waves. Light cannot reach deep tissues, making it hard to study important biological processes in their natural setting. By using ultrasound, which can penetrate much deeper, researchers hope to gain new insights into how cells behave in areas like the brain, tumors, and the digestive system. This technology could also improve how cell-based treatments are monitored and guided once they are given to patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not currently involve patient participation, but future applications could benefit patients receiving cell-based therapies or those with conditions affecting deep tissues.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options will not directly benefit from this early-stage technology development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this technology could lead to new ways to understand and treat diseases by precisely controlling cells deep inside the human body, potentially improving cell-based therapies.
How similar studies have performed: While optogenetics has revolutionized light-based cell control, this approach using ultrasound is novel and aims to overcome the limitations of light penetration.
Where this research is happening
PASADENA, UNITED STATES
- CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY — PASADENA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SHAPIRO, MIKHAIL — CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
- Study coordinator: SHAPIRO, MIKHAIL
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.