Ultrasound as a key tool for brain research

For years, healthcare professionals have relied on ultrasound to monitor pregnancies and assess internal organs. Now, studies demonstrate that transcranial ultrasound stimulation (TUS) can target specific areas of the brain, offering new hope for treating conditions such as pain, Parkinson’s disease, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and alcoholism – all without the use of drugs or surgery. 

TUS can also serve as a diagnostic tool, temporarily testing areas of the brain to identify the root causes of disorders before treatment begins. This targeted approach supports the development of personalized therapies, which could transform neurological and mental health care. 

Despite its promise, TUS faces significant hurdles before it can become a global standard in clinical and home healthcare settings. Each person’s brain and skull are unique, which necessitates personalized adjustments for effective treatment. Moreover, the technology must evolve to remain cost-effective and sustainable. 

Prof. Elsa Fouragnan, who leads the Brain Stimulation Lab in the University of Plymouth’s Brain Research and Imaging Centre, emphasizes the importance of these developments: "Over many years, we have improved our understanding of how the brain works and the failings within it that lead to neurological and mental health conditions. However, while advances have been made in treatments, they have not happened at a similar pace. We believe TUS can fill that gap and through our research to this point, we have discovered how it can be a genuine search and rescue tool for the brain. Clinicians and patients are excited about its potential, and if the current pace of development continues, we could have a risk-free technology that can positively impact millions, if not billions, of people." 

Researchers have developed and are testing small TUS devices that could be used at home after clinical assessments, reducing the need for frequent hospital visits. This approach could benefit individuals facing financial or logistical barriers to accessing care. 

Dr. Keith Murphy, co-founder of Attune Neurosciences and a researcher at Stanford University School of Medicine, explains: "There are countless reasons people can’t get to a clinic, whether it’s financial strain or simply not having the time. In the past few years, we’ve made substantial progress towards a device that leverages MRI precision guidance but may still be used safely at home. We’ve always believed that portability was a critical step towards making advanced brain therapies accessible to everyone and we’ve made great strides in demonstrating that it works." 

MEDICA-tradefair.com; Source: University of Plymouth