Ultrasound-triggered ketamine release to target brain pain circuits
Clinical Translation of Ultrasonic Ketamine Uncaging for Non-Opioid Therapy of Chronic Pain
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · STANFORD UNIVERSITY · NIH-11379707
Using focused ultrasound to release tiny amounts of ketamine directly in a specific brain area to relieve long-term chronic pain without opioids for people with persistent pain.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | STANFORD UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (STANFORD, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11379707 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project uses ultrasound-sensitive, biodegradable nanoparticles that carry ketamine and release it only where focused ultrasound is applied. The team aims the release at the anterior cingulate cortex, a brain region linked to chronic pain, so the drug works locally rather than throughout the whole body. In lab and animal tests this approach produced pain‑relief effects, and the work now focuses on steps needed to move the method toward clinical use in people. The goal is to create a noninvasive, targeted treatment that reduces pain with fewer off‑target side effects than systemic ketamine or opioids.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be adults with chronic, treatment‑resistant pain for whom standard therapies (including opioids) have not provided adequate relief.
Not a fit: People whose pain is driven primarily by ongoing peripheral tissue damage, who have contraindications to ketamine or brain ultrasound, or who need immediate systemic analgesia may not benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could provide long‑lasting, non‑opioid pain relief with fewer systemic side effects by delivering ketamine only where the brain is generating pain signals.
How similar studies have performed: Local ACC therapies and ketamine treatments have shown promise, but ultrasound-triggered drug uncaging is a novel technique with limited human data so far.
Where this research is happening
STANFORD, UNITED STATES
- STANFORD UNIVERSITY — STANFORD, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: AIRAN, RAAG D — STANFORD UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: AIRAN, RAAG D
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.