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Focused Ultrasound for Targeted Drug Delivery to the Brain By: Michelle Morris. Startup is developing a simple ultrasound method to get cancer drugs into the brain. Hope to use the technology on all neurological disorders later.
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Focused Ultrasound for Targeted Drug Delivery to the BrainBy:Michelle Morris
Startup is developing a simple ultrasound method to get cancer drugs into the brain. Hope to use the technology on all neurological disorders later. • The cells lining the brain’s blood vessels are tightly packed together to keep bacteria and other blood intruders out. But, this protective layer called the blood-brain barrier, also thwarts efforts to deliver drugs such as chemotherapy agents to the brain. With ultrasound waves they are able to open this barrier. What is currently being developed is a headset to expose the entire brain to low intensity ultrasound waves for hour long sessions.
Microbubble InjectionAn MRI is used to locate the positions within the head to assure appropriate positioning and good acoustic coupling. With a microbubble injection of the contrast agent through the ear the ultrasound will deliver the energy and the agent in pulsed sonifications at the localized areas.
Positives: • Ultimate form of noninvasive surgery • Destroy tumors without making any incisions/without harm to other organs • Transform pharmacological therapy by delivering drugs precisely where it is needed without harm to the rest of the body • Dissolve blood clots and restore flow through blocked vessels. • It can be performed on an outpatient basis with only mild sedation and minimal discomfort with few complications and rapid recovery.
Gartner’s Hype Cycle 2010Focused ultrasound is not located on this Hype Cycle, but it would fall at the peak of inflated expectations. It has been successfully tested on animals for the last three years and is expected to be tested on humans later in 2011.
Conclusion There is not a current threat to a particular industry or job, but technicians will need to get reeducated and hospitals and facilities will need to purchase the new technology to be competitive and have the most advanced systems.