Preclinical research is the stage of scientific investigation that occurs before new treatments or technologies are tested in humans. During this phase, researchers conduct experiments in laboratories and use animal models to evaluate the safety, effectiveness, and potential side effects of new methods. This important step helps ensure that any new therapies are safe and promising before moving on to clinical trials with human participants.
Ongoing research at Ghent University
TUS is used
1. as a non-invasive neuromodulation technique to investigate pathways involved in the pathophysiology of epilepsy and to develop novel therapies. A photometry coupled ultrasound device (PhoCUS), developed at Stanford University is used (Murphy et al., 2022).
2. to open the blood brain (BBB) barrier in order to more focally deliver anti-seizure medication. Using the RK50 device (FUSinstruments, Toronto, Canada) we validated BBB opening by injecting a dye systemically, which entered the brain after applying TUS
References:
1. Murphy KR, de Lecea L. Cell type specific focused ultrasound neuromodulation in preclinical models of sleep and psychiatric disorders. Neuropsychopharmacology. Published online July 18, 2023:1-2. doi:10.1038/s41386-023-01662-9
2. Lescrauwaet, E., K. Vonck, M. Sprengers, R. Raedt, D. Klooster, E. Carrette, and P. Boon. 2022. “Recent Advances in the Use of Focused Ultrasound as a Treatment for Epilepsy.” Frontiers in Neuroscience 16. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2022.886584.
Supported by UGent fund4brain (link: https://www.ugent.be/schenken/nl/hoe-steunen/steun-een-fonds/fonds4brain.htm), 4brain.eu, run4brain.com, bike4brain.com
Ongoing research at Eindhoven University of Technology - Radboud University
Unlocking the power of electro-encephalography: validation and personalization of transcranial ultrasound stimulation parameters
Supported by NWO VENI grant