Breakthrough Ultrasound Helmet Shows Promise for Non-invasive Parkinson’s Treatment
OXFORD, UK – A new helmet utilizing focused ultrasound waves could offer a non-surgical path to alleviating symptoms of neurological diseases like Parkinson’s, according to a study published in Nature Communications. Developed by researchers at the University of Oxford and University College London (UCL), the device demonstrates “remarkable accuracy” in targeting deep brain structures – a feat previously unattainable with ultrasound technology.
Unlike current deep brain stimulation (DBS) methods which require surgically implanted electrodes, this system uses mechanical ultrasound impulses to modulate brain activity. Researchers report the helmet can target brain areas 1000 times smaller than previously possible with ultrasound, opening doors to more precise and less invasive treatments.
The helmet, equipped with 256 ultrasound sources, is designed to fit within an MRI scanner. “At first it is chunky and oppressive to put it on, but then it will be more pleasant,” explained Ioana Grigoras, study author and a test subject.
In initial trials involving seven healthy participants, the team successfully directed ultrasound waves towards the lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN), a key processing center for visual information. Professor Charlotte Stagg of the University of Oxford, who led the project, highlighted the significance of this achievement: “The waves reached their goal with remarkable accuracy. That alone was exceptional – and nobody did it before.”
The modulation of the LGN resulted in measurable changes in the visual cortex, including reduced activity.Professor Stagg drew a parallel to Parkinson’s treatment, stating, “the equivalent of Parkinson’s patients would be to meet a motor control center and to alleviate trembling.”
Researchers, including UCL scientists Elly Martin and Brad Treeby, are now working towards a standalone version of the device. “At the moment he still needs an MRI to be controlled,” said Treeby, “But with the help of AI, he could also work independently in the future – such as for use at home.”
Beyond Parkinson’s, the team envisions potential applications for conditions like schizophrenia, depression, chronic pain, and stroke rehabilitation.
“But our long-term goal is to further develop the system into a practical clinical tool that could complement or even replace invasive brain implants,” added Martin,emphasizing the importance of patient collaboration in refining the device for comfort and versatility. Further studies are planned to validate these promising initial findings.
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-63020-1#Sec5
