Using focused ultrasound to improve memory in patients with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease
Modulation of Hippocampal Circuitry and Memory Function with Focused Ultrasound in Amnestic MCI
This study is exploring a new way to help improve memory for people with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease by using gentle sound waves to stimulate the brain, all without any surgery, and we’ll be monitoring how it affects brain activity during the treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10906206 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to enhance memory function in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) using low intensity focused ultrasound pulsation (LIFUP). Unlike traditional invasive methods, LIFUP uses sound waves to target deep brain structures critical for memory without the need for surgery. The study aims to assess how this technique can improve blood flow and connectivity in brain regions associated with memory, potentially leading to better cognitive outcomes. Participants will undergo treatment while being monitored in an MRI machine, allowing for real-time assessment of brain changes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment or early-stage Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those who do not have cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a non-invasive treatment option to enhance memory function in individuals suffering from MCI and Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: While neuromodulation techniques have been explored, this specific application of focused ultrasound for deep brain structures in MCI and AD is novel and has not been extensively tested in prior research.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bookheimer, Susan Y — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Bookheimer, Susan Y
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.