Using Ultrasound for Functional Brain Imaging and Its Applications in Neuroscience Research

Introduction: Brain mapping, also known as neuroimaging, refers to the techniques and methods used to understand the structure, function, and connectivity of the human brain.[۱] It involves creating detailed maps or images of the brain's various components and activities to gain insights into its complex workings.[۲] In this article, we discuss the advantages of using functional ultrasound imaging as a modality for brain mapping and compare with another brain mapping modality.Materials and Methods:In this review article Comprehensive searches were performed across academic databases, which included PubMed, Google Scholar, IEEE Xplore, and ScienceDirect. These databases were selected due to their extensive coverage of neuroscience and medical imaging literature.A total of ۱۵۰ articles were initially identified based on their titles using the designated keywords.Subsequently, a preliminary screening excluded ۵۰ articles that lacked direct relevance to the central theme of brain mapping with ultrasound. The remaining articles underwent abstract reviews to ascertain their alignment with the research objectives.Following this rigorous screening process, the selection was narrowed down to ۳۰ articles, which were deemed most pertinent to the topic.Results: By tabulating data was gathered by articles, it was resulted that Functional Ultrasound (FUS) emerges as a highly promising neuroimaging technique with significant potential for both research and clinical applications.[۳] Its non-invasive nature, coupled with excellent spatial and temporal resolution, positions it as a valuable tool for studying brain activity in diverse animal models.[۴] Furthermore, recent developments in FUS technology, such as the use of low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU), suggest the feasibility of non-invasive brain mapping and potential therapeutic interventions in humans.[۵, ۶]While FUS offers numerous advantages, including the absence of radiation exposure and the ability to induce long-term changes in neural activity, it is essential to acknowledge its current limitations. Challenges related to volumetric imaging quality, sensitivity, and the impact of skull bone on ultrasound propagation must be addressed to maximize the technique's effectiveness.[۷, ۸]Conclusion: Overall, FUS, in conjunction with other imaging modalities like fMRI, holds promise for elucidating the neural underpinnings of various functional brain disorders, potentially paving the way for innovative non-invasive treatments.[۹] This technology may have significant implications for addressing conditions such as bipolar disorder, OCD, depression, autism, chronic pain, obesity, and Parkinson's disease, offering new avenues for understanding and ameliorating these complex neurological conditions.[۱۰]

کلیدواژه ها:

Brain Mapping ، Functional Ultrasound ، non invasive