The ISC is part of the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory and will follow all current policies. Please visit the JHU/APL page for more information on the Lab's visitor guidance.

2018

Ultrasonic modulation of neural circuit activity


Abstract

Ultrasound (US) is recognized for its use in medical imaging as a diagnostic tool. As an acoustic energy source, US has become increasingly appreciated over the past decade for its ability to non-invasively modulate cellular activity including neuronal activity. Data obtained from a host of experimental models has shown that low-intensity US can reversibly modulate the physiological activity of neurons in peripheral nerves, spinal cord, and intact brain circuits. Experimental evidence indicates that acoustic pressures exerted by US act, in part, on mechanosensitive ion channels to modulate activity. While the precise mechanisms of action enabling US to both stimulate and suppress neuronal activity remain to be clarified, there are several advantages conferred by the physics of US that make it an appealing option for neuromodulation. For example, it can be focused with millimeter spatial resolutions through skull bone to deep-brain regions. By increasing our engineering capability to leverage such physical advantages while growing our understanding of how US affects neuronal function, the development of a new generation of non-invasive neurotechnology can be developed using ultrasonic methods.

Citation

article: Tyler_2018 doi: 10.1016/j.conb.2018.04.011 url: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conb.2018.04.011 year: 2018 month: jun publisher: Elsevier BV volume: 50 pages: 222--231 author: Tyler William J and Lani Shane W and Hwang Grace M title: Ultrasonic modulation of neural circuit activity journal: Current Opinion in Neurobiology

Citation

article: Tyler_2018 doi: 10.1016/j.conb.2018.04.011 url: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conb.2018.04.011 year: 2018 month: jun publisher: Elsevier BV volume: 50 pages: 222--231 author: Tyler William J and Lani Shane W and Hwang Grace M title: Ultrasonic modulation of neural circuit activity journal: Current Opinion in Neurobiology