Investigating the effects of ultrasound stimulation on the brain for treating substance use disorders.
Official title: Secondary Histologic Analysis of TUS Studies
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11005319 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help people with substance use disorders by using a gentle ultrasound technique to stimulate a part of the brain, and it aims to see if this method is safe and if it causes any inflammation in the brain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $65,620 |
| NIH project number | 5R03MH135445-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11005319 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with substance use disorders who may benefit from innovative treatment approaches.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have substance use disorders or those who are not responsive to non-invasive brain stimulation techniques may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the nucleus accumbens, a brain region targeted for non-invasive stimulation to help treat substance use disorders. Using transcranial ultrasound stimulation (TUS), the study aims to assess the safety and effects of this method on brain cells and inflammation. By analyzing existing data from previous studies, including animal models, the researchers will evaluate whether TUS causes any inflammatory responses in the brain. This comprehensive analysis will help determine the viability of TUS as a treatment option for patients with substance use disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new, non-invasive treatment option for individuals struggling with substance use disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies using transcranial ultrasound stimulation in animal models have shown promising results, indicating potential for success in human applications.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Butts-Pauly, Kim — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Butts-Pauly, Kim
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.