Integration of focused ultrasound and dynamic imaging control system for targeted neuro-modulation

Abstract

Background

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (tMS) have received widespread clinical use as techniques within a Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation (NIBS) domain, whose primary focus is modulation of neural activity to treat neurological and psychiatric disorders. Despite these advancements, precision targeting of deep brain structures remains a challenge faced with great need of another innovation that will improve precision and reduce the risks. A novel methodology integrating transcranial Focused Ultrasound (tFUS) with real-time functional imaging modalities, including functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) and Near-Infra-Red Spectroscopy (NIRS), is proposed in this study as the Integrated Focused Ultrasound and Real-Time Imaging Control System (IFURTICS).

Principle results

Closed loop algorithms employed by IFURTICS allow it to dynamically vary stimulation parameters in response to real-time feedback on neural activity, allowing for accurate targeting of sensitive networks while minimizing deleterious collateral effects.

Conclusions

Clinical trials using standard datasets of fMRI and NIRS have proved that the approach improved targeting accuracy by ∼18 %, reduced off-target effects by ∼55 % and enhanced therapeutic outcomes by 50 % over current methods, suggesting its potential as a transformative approach to precision neuro-modulation.