Published , Modified Abstract on Magnetic Field from MRI Affects Focused-Ultrasound-Mediated Blood-Brain Barrier Original source
Magnetic Field from MRI Affects Focused-Ultrasound-Mediated Blood-Brain Barrier
Introduction
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a protective layer that separates the brain from circulating blood. It prevents harmful substances from entering the brain while allowing essential nutrients to pass through. However, this barrier can also prevent drugs from reaching the brain, making it difficult to treat neurological disorders. Focused ultrasound (FUS) is a non-invasive technique that can temporarily disrupt the BBB, allowing drugs to enter the brain. However, recent research suggests that the magnetic field generated by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can interfere with FUS-mediated BBB disruption.
What is Focused Ultrasound?
Focused ultrasound is a non-invasive technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to target specific areas of the body. It has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including uterine fibroids, prostate cancer, and essential tremor. In recent years, researchers have been exploring its potential for treating neurological disorders by temporarily disrupting the blood-brain barrier.
How Does Focused Ultrasound Disrupt the Blood-Brain Barrier?
Focused ultrasound works by generating high-frequency sound waves that are focused on a specific area of the brain. These sound waves cause microscopic bubbles in the blood vessels to expand and contract rapidly, creating small openings in the blood-brain barrier. This allows drugs or other therapeutic agents to enter the brain.
The Role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic tool that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the body's internal structures. It is often used in conjunction with focused ultrasound to guide the treatment and monitor its effects.
However, recent research suggests that the magnetic field generated by MRI can interfere with FUS-mediated BBB disruption. A study published in Scientific Reports found that exposure to MRI during FUS treatment reduced BBB disruption in mice. The researchers found that the magnetic field caused the microbubbles to oscillate, reducing their ability to disrupt the BBB.
Implications for Focused Ultrasound Treatment
The findings of this study have important implications for the use of focused ultrasound in treating neurological disorders. If MRI can interfere with FUS-mediated BBB disruption, it may limit the effectiveness of the treatment. Researchers will need to explore ways to mitigate this interference, such as adjusting the timing or intensity of the MRI.
Conclusion
Focused ultrasound is a promising non-invasive technique for treating neurological disorders by temporarily disrupting the blood-brain barrier. However, recent research suggests that the magnetic field generated by MRI can interfere with this process. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind this interference and develop strategies to mitigate its effects.
FAQs
What is the blood-brain barrier?
The blood-brain barrier is a protective layer that separates the brain from circulating blood. It prevents harmful substances from entering the brain while allowing essential nutrients to pass through.
What is focused ultrasound?
Focused ultrasound is a non-invasive technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to target specific areas of the body. It has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including uterine fibroids, prostate cancer, and essential tremor.
How does focused ultrasound disrupt the blood-brain barrier?
Focused ultrasound works by generating high-frequency sound waves that are focused on a specific area of the brain. These sound waves cause microscopic bubbles in the blood vessels to expand and contract rapidly, creating small openings in the blood-brain barrier.
What is magnetic resonance imaging?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic tool that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the body's internal structures.
How does MRI interfere with focused ultrasound-mediated blood-brain barrier disruption?
Recent research suggests that exposure to MRI during FUS treatment reduces BBB disruption in mice. The magnetic field caused the microbubbles to oscillate, reducing their ability to disrupt the BBB.
What are the implications of this research for focused ultrasound treatment?
If MRI can interfere with FUS-mediated BBB disruption, it may limit the effectiveness of the treatment. Researchers will need to explore ways to mitigate this interference, such as adjusting the timing or intensity of the MRI.
This abstract is presented as an informational news item only and has not been reviewed by a subject matter professional. This abstract should not be considered medical advice. This abstract might have been generated by an artificial intelligence program. See TOS for details.