Stanford
Explore Technologies

Docket #: S17-163

Phase-change nanoparticles for neuromodulation

Stanford researchers at the Airan Lab have developed a new method for robust and spatiotemporally precise non-invasive neuromodulation that could transform both basic and clinical neuroscience.
This technology focally releases drugs from nanoparticles within the brain and peripheral nervous system with the application of focused ultrasound. The system can encapsulate and deliver most any small molecule drug, especially lipophilic drugs that would normally cross the blood- brain barrier. This system is effective and safe. In addition, the particles can be produced in large scales with cGMP-compatible methods.

Figure

Stage of Research

  • Proof-of-principle - Propofol used as test case
  • Continued work towards clinical translation

    • Applications

    • Pre-surgical mapping of functional brain regions to be resected
    • Pre-hoc validation of a brain region to be intervened upon with, e.g., DBS, RFA, FUS, radiosurgery
    • Adjunctive focal pharmacotherapy for psychiatric treatment
    • Scientific studies

    Advantages

    • Improves upon current neuromodulation methods:
      • More robust mechanism of action than the direct application of ultrasound to brain for neuromodulation
      • More spatially precise and increased depth of penetration than TMS or tcDCS
      • Less invasive than DBS and other electrode-based methods
    • Can encapsulate and deliver most any small molecule drug
    • Particles amenable to large scale cGMP-compatible methods
    • Safe and effective method

    Publications

    News Articles

  • "Ultrasound releases drug to alter activity in targeted brain areas in rats"
  • Prof. Airan is the Finalist for the Science-PINS Prize for Neuromodulation'

    • Related Links

    Patents

    Similar Technologies

    Explore similar technologies by keyword: