Ultrasound neuromodulation has gained attention as a promising technique to overcome limitations of current techniques such as the implantation of electrodes when using deep brain stimulation; the poor spatial resolution, inadequate depth of penetration, short-lasting effects of transcranial magnetic stimulation, and the gene modification required by optogenetics. Focused ultrasound (FUS) has been shown to be capable of modulating - suppressing or stimulating - specific parts of the nervous system.
The purpose of this research is to understand the underlying mechanism behind FUS activation of the nerves. Ongoing studies include FUS neuromodulation of the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS).