CNT Seminar: Nick Todd

Abstract:          

In this talk I will describe the technology of focused ultrasound and its unique ability to deliver energy through the intact skull to a small focal region at either cortical or subcortical targets in the brain. Our research uses focused ultrasound to probe and manipulate the brain with structural and functional MRI to guide, monitor and evaluate the procedures. We are interested in both basic science studies to better understand brain function and in developing treatments for neurological disease. I will start the talk with a brief background on the three main applications of focused ultrasound in the brain: thermal ablation for lesioning treatments, blood-brain barrier disruption for targeted drug delivery, and neuronal stimulation/inhibition for brain modulation studies. I will then focus on several BBB opening projects from our lab, including an ongoing study into how BBB opening alters the neurovascular response, which uses functional MRI as a readout and is being done in collaboration with the FIL. We are currently investigating mechanisms for the effect and I would be interested in any feedback on possible avenues to explore.