Using low intensity focused ultrasound to treat depression and anxiety
Official title: Low intensity focused ultrasound: a new paradigm for depression and anxiety
Funded at Ocean State Research Institute, INC. · NIH-10805386 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help people with depression and anxiety by using gentle sound waves to safely change brain activity, aiming to make treatments more effective and with fewer side effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ocean State Research Institute, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2021 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $585,279 |
| NIH project number | 5U01MH123427-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10805386 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with depression or anxiety disorders who have not responded adequately to existing treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with mild symptoms or those who have not been diagnosed with depression or anxiety may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to treating depression and anxiety by using low intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) to non-invasively modulate brain activity, specifically targeting the amygdala, a key region involved in emotional processing. The study aims to improve treatment efficacy while minimizing side effects associated with current therapies. By applying acoustic energy, the researchers hope to achieve better clinical outcomes for patients suffering from these mental health disorders. The methodology involves using LIFU in translational models and non-human primates to assess its effectiveness before potential application in human trials.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for patients with depression and anxiety that has fewer side effects than current therapies.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of low intensity focused ultrasound is a relatively novel approach, there is emerging evidence suggesting that non-invasive brain stimulation techniques can be effective in treating similar conditions.
Where this research is happening
-
Ocean State Research Institute, INC.
Providence, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Philip, Noah Stephen — Ocean State Research Institute, INC.
- Study coordinator: Philip, Noah Stephen
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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.