Using focused ultrasound to treat chronic pain by targeting the insula in the brain
Official title: Low Intensity Focused Ultrasound for Chronic Pain: High Resolution Targeting of The Human Insula
Funded at U.s. Dept/vets Affairs Medical Center · NIH-11072039 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a gentle ultrasound treatment can help reduce chronic pain by focusing on a specific part of the brain, and it's designed for adults who are struggling with ongoing pain and want a new way to find relief.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | U.s. Dept/vets Affairs Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01CX002562-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11072039 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who experience chronic pain conditions, particularly those with central sensitization.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute pain or those who do not have chronic pain conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) as a noninvasive treatment for chronic pain by specifically targeting the insular cortex in the brain. Chronic pain affects a significant portion of adults, and current treatments often lack precision. By applying LIFU, the study aims to inhibit pain processing in the insula, which is crucial for understanding and managing chronic pain. The approach is based on previous pilot data showing that LIFU can effectively reduce pain responses in healthy individuals, suggesting potential benefits for those suffering from chronic pain conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, targeted, noninvasive treatment option for individuals suffering from chronic pain.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using focused ultrasound for neuromodulation, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements in chronic pain management.
Where this research is happening
-
U.s. Dept/vets Affairs Medical Center
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Mary — U.s. Dept/vets Affairs Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Lee, Mary
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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.