Key Points
- The Foundation’s Research Awards Program initiated two preclinical studies in the second quarter of 2023.
- The funded projects use focused ultrasound to address feline diabetes and low back pain.
- Learn how to apply for funding.
The Foundation’s Research Awards Program initiated two new preclinical studies in the second quarter of 2023. The funded projects use focused ultrasound to address diabetes in cats and low back pain originating in the sacroiliac (SI) joint.
“The bond between a pet and their person can be damaged with the current standard-of-care, which is insulin injections,” said Kelsie Timbie, PhD, the Foundation’s veterinary medicine program director and scientific programs manager. “Focused ultrasound neuromodulation may offer a treatment option that is easier for both.”
The latest preclinical projects are listed below.
Multi-site Ultrasound Neuromodulation for Weight-loss and Improved Metabolic Function in Obese Domestic Cats led by Emily Graff, DVM, PhD, DACVP, at Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine
There is a critical need for therapies to improve insulin regulation and obesity in cats, especially cost-efficient and non-pharmaceutical adjuncts to diet and exercise. In this project, researchers will investigate whether multisite ultrasound neuromodulation can decrease body weight and insulin resistance in prediabetic obese cats. Previous work has shown that a single neuromodulation treatment of both the liver and gastrointestinal tract led to diabetic remission.
Preclinical Investigation of Ultrasound-Guided Focused Ultrasound Therapy for Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Low Back Pain led by Amitabh Gulati, MD, at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
To determine whether ultrasound guidance is sufficient for focused ultrasound treatment of the SI joint and whether a clinical trial can be launched for such a device, researchers will investigate the effects of and the feasibility of sacroiliac joint ablation using a portable focused ultrasound system guided by ultrasound imaging. Thermal ablation of the nerves innervating the SI joint is believed to provide promising outcomes for treating low back pain.