Improving drug delivery to the brain using ultrasound techniques
Optimization of ultrasound-mediated drug delivery to the brain under clinically relevant conditions
This study is exploring a new way to help deliver medications directly to the brain for people with brain tumors and neurodegenerative diseases by using ultrasound and tiny bubbles to temporarily open the protective barrier around the brain, making treatments more effective and safer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10898750 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the delivery of medications to the brain by temporarily disrupting the blood-brain barrier using ultrasound and microbubble agents. The team aims to develop new methods for treatment planning that consider the unique anatomy of the human skull and variations in tissue structures. By improving the control and safety of this procedure, the research seeks to optimize drug delivery for patients with brain tumors and neurodegenerative diseases. The project builds on previous animal studies and aims to address challenges faced in early clinical trials.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients suffering from brain tumors, neurodegenerative diseases, or other conditions that require effective drug delivery to the brain.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to the central nervous system or those who do not require drug delivery to the brain may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with brain tumors and other central nervous system disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using ultrasound for blood-brain barrier disruption, but this approach aims to refine and optimize the technique for clinical use.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcdannold, Nathan J. — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Mcdannold, Nathan J.
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.