Mapping Sensory Processing with Ultrasound

Working with our collaborators in the TN2 Lab, we are measuring changes in brain response to sound and touch as a result of low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) sonication in the brain. This work aims to understand how modulating sensory brain circuits may support future clinical applications, such as improving sensory processing in conditions like autism spectrum disorder.

Study Basics

Are you a healthy volunteer over the age of 18? If so, you may be eligible to participate in a pilot research study to determine if Low-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (LIFU) can be used to change brain activity caused by somatosensory stimulation.

Study Purpose

This study is being done to test low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU). LIFU is a new technique being used to modulate brain activity in many disorders which have a neurological component. The study team is trying to learn more about how this technique can affect the brain activity caused by sensations.

Could this study be right for you?

• Healthy volunteers
• Age 18 or older

What Participants Can Expect

Study participants will be in this study for about 3 weeks, and they will visit the research site at UCSF Mission Bay about 3 times. The first visit will include a structural MRI used to do safety planning. Visit 2 will include sonication using the NeuroFUS Brainbox, and Visit 3 will include sonication using the Attune system. A follow-up phone call will be completed about a week later to ensure there are no side effects.