Transcranial ultrasound (TUS) effects on mental states: A pilot study - Brain Stimulation Journal, 5/6/2012
First clinical trial of trancranial ultrasound (TUS) on mental states
Dr. Stuart Hameroff, professor emeritus of the UA's departments of anesthesiology and psychology and director of the UA's Center for Consciousness Studies, is lead author on the first clinical study of brain ultrasound, which was published in the journal Brain Stimulation.
Hameroff and colleagues performed the first clinical trial of trancranial ultrasound (TUS) on mental states, finding improved mood after 15 seconds of sub-thermal 8 MHz ultrasound compared with placebo applied at the temporal skull. Transcranial ultrasound (TUS) effects on mental states: A pilot study - Brain Stimulation (May 6, 2012)
Another study is planned with colleagues and UA professor of psychology John Allen and grad student Jay Sanguineti for mood, cognition and psychological and neurological disorders (including post-operative cognitive dysfunction). Microtubules within brain neurons are thought to resonate at megahertz frequencies, precisely where ultrasound acts. We hope to enhance mood, and treat various neurological disorders by stimulating brain microtubule dynamics through TUS.
Co-Authors from the Department of Anesthesiology: Professors Patrick Boyle MD, Emil Annabi MD, Anthony Lucas MD, Quinlan Amos, MD and Mike Trakas MD (former resident)
Additional Links:
- Research page - Science of Consciousness, UA Department of Anesthesiology website
- Transcranial ultrasound (TUS) effects on mental states: A pilot study - Brain Stimulation Journal, 5/6/2012
- 'Good Vibrations’! Brain Ultrasound Improves Mood - Newswise, 5/14/2013
- Good Vibrations: Mediating Mood Through Brain Ultrasound - UA News 7/16/2013