June 30, 2023 - Neuromodulation Breakthroughs and more news

Published: 30 June 2023

June 30, 2023

This issue features important news in the field of focused ultrasound neuromodulation, a mechanism in which ultrasound is used to stimulate or suppress nerve activity.

Ultrasound Neuromodulation Induces Hibernation

Researchers conducted a preclinical study to send rodents into a hibernation-like state called “torpor.”
Mammals and some birds enter torpor to conserve energy in harsh environments.
The effect was prolonged when controlled by an automated body temperature detector.

Clinical Trial Shows Promising Results for Focused Ultrasound Neuromodulation of Diabetes

Applying focused ultrasound to the liver may improve diabetes symptoms.
A recent Phase I clinical trial enrolled 16 participants with Type 2 diabetes.
The treatment lowered fasting insulin levels and improved insulin resistance scores.

Sonic Concepts Acquires Rights to Ultrasound Neuromodulation Patents

Sonic Concepts purchased an exclusive license for patents protecting ultrasound for neuromodulation.
The portfolio includes low-intensity ultrasound neuromodulation techniques developed by Jamie Tyler, PhD.
The company plans to commercialize the intellectual property for various indications.

Read the Press Release

The Piezo1 Gene’s Role in Focused Ultrasound Brain Neuromodulation

Medical illustration of neuromodulation using focused ultrasound

Researchers conducted a preclinical study to determine the potential role of genetics in brain neuromodulation.
They found that the mechanosensitive ion channel gene, Piezo1, mediated ultrasound neuromodulation.
The protein encoded by Piezo1 is a mechanically activated ion channel that links mechanical forces to biological signals.

Transformational Donation Will Advance Neuromodulation Research in Toronto

Person looking at medical images on a computer monitor

Sunnybrook’s Harquail Centre for Neuromodulation is the recipient of a new $12 million gift to advance neuromodulation therapies.
The funds will be used to establish professorships, support learners, and advance vital research projects.
The Harquail Centre has pioneered clinical research in focused ultrasound for Alzheimer's disease, ALS, Parkinson’s disease, depression, and OCD.

Read the Announcement

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Events

July 14-18, 2023 American Veterinary Medicine Association (AVMA) Convention 2023, Denver, Colorado

July 23-27, 2023 American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) Annual Meeting 2023, Houston, Texas

September 8-9, 2023 Congress of Neurological Surgeons Tumor Section Symposium, Washington, DC

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“Focused ultrasound has the potential to address the long sought-after goal of achieving noninvasive and safe induction of the torpor-like state, which has been pursued by the scientific community at least since the 1960s.”

‒ Hong Chen, PhD