Non-invasive treatment for brain tumors using ultrasound and MRI guidance
Official title: Transcranial MRI- and Ultrasound- guided histotripsy (tcMR-USgHt) system
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11108633 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to treat brain tumors using a special combination of MRI and ultrasound that aims to destroy tumors without surgery, making it safer and easier for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | January 15, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $543,959 |
| NIH project number | 1R01EB037129-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11108633 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with primary brain tumors or brain metastases who are seeking alternative treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-brain tumors or those who are not candidates for any form of tumor ablation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a new system that combines transcranial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound to treat brain tumors without the need for invasive surgery. By using focused ultrasound pulses, the system can create mechanical ablation in brain tissue, targeting tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. The approach is designed to overcome the limitations of current treatments like surgery and radiation therapy, which can have significant side effects. Patients will be monitored closely to assess the effectiveness and safety of this innovative treatment method.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safer, non-invasive treatment option for patients with brain tumors.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar ultrasound-based ablation techniques, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xu, Zhen — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Xu, Zhen
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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.