Improving brain imaging using ultrasound and machine learning
Toward ultrasound brain imaging via machine-learning-extracted skull profile and speed of sound
This study is working on a new way to take clearer pictures of the brain using a portable ultrasound device, which could help doctors quickly spot issues like brain bleeding, especially in emergencies when other imaging tools aren't available.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Blacksburg, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10757319 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing brain imaging techniques using transcranial ultrasound, which is a noninvasive and portable method. By employing machine learning to analyze the skull's profile and the speed of sound, the project aims to correct image distortions caused by the skull, leading to clearer and more accurate brain images. This approach could be particularly beneficial in emergency situations where traditional imaging methods like CT or MRI are not available. The research seeks to develop algorithms that can improve the quality of ultrasound images, making it easier to detect conditions like brain hemorrhages and assess brain function.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who may be experiencing conditions related to brain vascular disorders or traumatic brain injuries.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions that do not involve the brain or those who are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide faster and more accurate brain imaging for patients, especially in emergency settings.
How similar studies have performed: While transcranial ultrasound has shown promise in preliminary studies, this specific approach using machine learning for skull profile correction is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Blacksburg, United States
- Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ — Blacksburg, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Han, Aiguo — Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ
- Study coordinator: Han, Aiguo
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.