LIFU for Autonomic Nervous System Disorders

This trial investigates how low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) neuromodulation affects the autonomic nervous system, which manages automatic body functions like heart rate and digestion. Researchers are testing LIFU on two brain areas: the dorsal posterior insula (dPI) and the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC), while comparing results to a placebo-like sham group. Participants will complete a cold pressor task (a test involving cold exposure) before and after LIFU to assess changes in their body's automatic responses. Individuals without neurological disorders or major heart or diabetes issues may be suitable for this study. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research on LIFU's effects on the nervous system.

The trial requires that you have not used any cardiac or diabetic medications, so if you are currently taking these, you would need to stop before participating.

Research has shown that low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) is emerging as a promising treatment for various mental health conditions. Studies have found that LIFU is usually well-tolerated, with patients experiencing few side effects. One study on severe traumatic brain injury used LIFU safely without major problems.

Researchers are excited about low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) neuromodulation for autonomic nervous system disorders because it offers a non-invasive approach to modulating brain activity, unlike standard treatments that typically involve medication or invasive procedures. LIFU targets specific areas of the brain, such as the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and the dorsal prefrontal insula (dPI), using sound waves to potentially alter neural circuits without the need for surgery. This precision targeting could lead to fewer side effects and quicker adjustments compared to traditional therapies, providing a novel pathway to manage symptoms more effectively.

This trial will explore the effects of low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) for autonomic nervous system disorders. Participants will be assigned to different treatment arms: LIFU targeting the ACC, LIFU targeting the dPI, or a sham LIFU application. Studies have shown that LIFU is gaining popularity for treating various brain-related conditions. For instance, LIFU has been used successfully in patients with severe traumatic brain injury to help them regain consciousness. Other research found that LIFU can reduce pain by about 1 point on a 10-point scale and alter the body's reaction to pain. Overall, LIFU is a noninvasive method, meaning it doesn't require surgery, and it shows promise for positively affecting brain activity.¹²³⁴⁶