Investigating how focused ultrasound affects brain cells and circuits

Characterization of in vivo neuronal and inter-neuronal responses to transcranial focused ultrasound

NIH-funded research Carnegie-Mellon University · NIH-10337754

This study is looking at how a gentle ultrasound treatment can affect brain cells and their connections in rats, which could help develop new, non-surgical ways to treat brain disorders in the future.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCarnegie-Mellon University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-10337754 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the effects of low-intensity transcranial focused ultrasound (tFUS) on brain cells and their connections without the need for invasive surgery. By using advanced techniques in both anesthetized and awake rat models, the study aims to understand how different tFUS settings influence specific types of neurons and their long-term connectivity. The findings could pave the way for new non-invasive treatments for various brain disorders by enhancing our understanding of how ultrasound can modulate brain activity.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological conditions that may benefit from non-invasive neuromodulation techniques.

Not a fit: Patients with severe brain injuries or those requiring immediate surgical intervention may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative non-invasive treatments for brain disorders, improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with non-invasive neuromodulation techniques, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Brain DiseasesBrain DisordersEncephalon DiseasesIntracranial CNS DisordersIntracranial Central Nervous System Disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.