Sound waves and holograms control brain circuits
New technique uses sound waves and holograms to control brain circuits in mice, paving the way for non-invasive treatments.
Why it matters
- First visual evidence of brain circuit activation using ultrasound waves and holograms.
- Potential for non-invasive treatments of neurological diseases and mental health disorders.
By the numbers
- 512 ultrasound emitters used to create holograms.
- Neurons became 10 times more sensitive to ultrasound when targeting distributed circuits.
The big picture
- Technique could lead to safer, non-invasive brain treatments.
- Current applications are being tested for Parkinson's disease.
What they're saying
- Researchers hope to translate this work into human treatments.
- Ethical questions raised about brain manipulation techniques.
Caveats
- Study conducted in mice; human trials needed.
- Need to calibrate ultrasound waves to avoid brain tissue damage.
What’s next
- Explore activating more complex neural circuits.
- Test ultrasound on deeper brain circuits.