Noninvasive imaging of brain activity using ultrasound technology
4D Transcranial Acoustoelectric Imaging for High Resolution Functional Mapping of Neuronal Currents
This study is testing a new way to see how the brain works using ultrasound, which could help doctors get clearer pictures of brain activity and improve care for people with neurological conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10906215 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new imaging technique called Transcranial Acoustoelectric Brain Imaging (tABI) that uses ultrasound to visualize neural currents deep within the brain. By sending ultrasound pulses through the skull, the technique captures radiofrequency signals that reflect brain activity, allowing for high-resolution mapping of neuronal currents in real-time. This method aims to overcome the limitations of existing imaging techniques like EEG, fMRI, and PET, providing clearer and more accurate images of brain function. Patients may benefit from this innovative approach as it could lead to better diagnosis and treatment of various neurological conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults over 21 years old who are experiencing neurological or behavioral disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions that do not affect brain activity or those who are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the ability to diagnose and treat brain disorders by providing detailed insights into brain activity.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using ultrasound for brain imaging is innovative, similar technologies have shown promise in other areas of medical imaging, suggesting potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Tucson, United States
- University of Arizona — Tucson, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Witte, Russell S — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Witte, Russell S
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.