Understanding how focused ultrasound can stimulate the brain noninvasively

Biophysical and Neural Basis of Focused Ultrasound Stimulation

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-10415733

This study is looking at how a special type of ultrasound can gently stimulate or calm down certain areas of the brain, using advanced imaging to see what happens, and it could help people with neurological conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-10415733 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of noninvasive focused ultrasound (FUS) on the brain, aiming to uncover the neural and biophysical mechanisms involved. By using advanced imaging techniques like MRI, researchers can precisely target specific brain regions and observe how different ultrasound doses affect brain activity at various levels. The study will explore how FUS can both excite and inhibit brain activity, providing insights into its potential therapeutic applications for neurological conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological conditions that may benefit from noninvasive brain stimulation.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions that do not involve the brain or those who are not suitable for ultrasound treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new noninvasive treatments for neurological disorders by improving our understanding of brain stimulation techniques.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with focused ultrasound techniques, indicating potential for significant advancements in neuromodulation.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.