Noninvasive light manipulation of brain activity
Rapid brain-wide optogenetic screening with a noninvasive, dynamically programmable in vivo light source
This study is testing a new, gentle way to control brain activity using sound and light, which could help researchers better understand and treat brain conditions without needing surgery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10401548 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores a novel method called sono-optogenetics, which uses focused ultrasound to noninvasively manipulate neural activity in the brain. By overcoming the limitations of traditional optogenetics, which often require invasive procedures, this approach aims to provide a safer and more flexible way to study brain circuits. The research focuses on developing a programmable light source that can dynamically target different brain regions without the need for surgical implantation. This could lead to significant advancements in understanding and treating neurological conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals with neurological disorders that could benefit from targeted brain stimulation.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions that do not involve the brain or those who are not candidates for any form of brain stimulation may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enable safer and more effective treatments for various neurological disorders by allowing precise control of brain activity without invasive procedures.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise with noninvasive brain stimulation techniques, but this specific approach using sono-optogenetics is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hong, Guosong — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Hong, Guosong
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.