(DURIP) ELECTRICAL STEERING FOR TRANSCRANIAL FOCUSED ULTRASOUND MODULATION OF EEG SIGNALS

Abstract

To better understand cognitive and computational processes in the brain, it is necessary to both measure and manipulate its circuitry. Transcranial ultrasound stimulation (TUS), pulsed at low intensity, is a non-invasive next generation technique (~50 publications in humans to date) that can induce excitation and suppression of focal neural activity. TUS offers considerable advantages over conventional techniques that use electrical currents or magnetic fields to alter brain activity (e.g., TMS) for two key reasons. First, the acoustic focus targets brain regions with elegant spatial precision without altering brain activity in intervening tissues. Second, TUS can induce sustained neuromodulation in deep regions of the brain, structures previously inaccessible for targeting by conventional modalities. The application of ultrasonic waves induces reversible, focal manipulation that appears to be primarily mechanical in nature. TUS is now poised to become an essential tool across the domains of basic neuroscience research, clinical applications, and brain computer interfaces. As an emerging technology, the optimization of stimulation parameters and protocols are an active area of research.

Document Details

Document Type
DoD Grant Award
Publication Date
Mar 07, 2023
Source ID
FA95502210154

Entities

People

  • Pamela Douglas

Organizations

  • Air Force Office of Scientific Research
  • United States Air Force
  • University of Central Florida Board of Trustees

Tags

Fields of Study

  • Medicine

Readers

  • Brain and Cognitive Science; Experimental Psychology; Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Neurotrauma and Rehabilitation Medicine.
  • Research Science/Academic Research

Technology Areas

  • Biotechnology