Understanding how low-intensity focused ultrasound affects pain responses in the brain
Official title: Mapping the neural and physiologic response to tonic pain with low-intensity focused ultrasound: a bridge towards therapeutic applications
Funded at Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ · NIH-11071332 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the brain and body react to pain by using a gentle ultrasound technique to target certain areas in the brain, and it's for people with chronic pain who want to explore new ways to manage their discomfort.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Blacksburg, United States) |
| Project start | January 10, 2025 |
| Project end | March 9, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $44,151 |
| NIH project number | 1F30AT013174-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11071332 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who experience chronic pain.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute pain or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain and body respond to pain by using low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) to target specific brain regions involved in pain processing. The study aims to map the neural and physiological responses to pain and explore how manipulating these brain areas can change pain experiences. By focusing on the posterior insula and dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, the research seeks to uncover their roles in chronic pain conditions. Participants will undergo non-invasive procedures to help identify potential new treatments for pain management.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative non-invasive therapies for managing chronic pain.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using focused ultrasound for neuromodulation, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ
Blacksburg, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Strohman, Andrew — Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ
- Study coordinator: Strohman, Andrew
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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.