Modulating nociception networks: the impact of low-intensity focused ultrasound on thalamocortical connectivity

• DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcaf062
• Publication Date: 2025-02-08T09:58:41Z
• Authors: Arabinda Mishra; Pai-Feng Yang; Thomas J Manuel; Allen T Newton; M Anthony Phipps; Huiwen Luo; Michelle K Sigona; Allison Q Dockum; Jamie L Reed; John C Gore; William A Grissom; Charles F Caskey; Li Min Chen
• Keywords: Intensity

Pain engages multiple brain networks, with the thalamus serving as a critical subcortical hub. This study aims to explore effects of low-intensity transcranial focused ultrasound-induced suppression on organization thalamocortical nociceptive networks. We employed MR-guided ultrasound, potential non-invasive therapy, real-time ultrasound beam localization feedback and fMRI monitoring. first functionally identified target at thalamic ventroposterior lateral nucleus by mapping whole-brain blood oxygenation level-dependent responses heat stimulation hand using in each individual macaque monkey under light anaesthesia. The signals from heat-responsive were analysed derive effective functional connectivity network psychophysical interaction method. Nineteen cortical regions across sensorimotor, cognitive, associative limbic networks exhibited strong during processing. Focused activity altered most 19 regions. Data-driven hierarchical clustering analyses time courses all region-of-interest pairs two subnetworks. concurrent response reorganized these subnetworks modified connection strength. Our findings suggest that has extensive causal connections wide array areas combination enables precise dissection modulation brain, capability no other device-based neuromodulation methods have achieved. presents promising tool for modulating pain profound clinical relevance. robust strongly supports viable management strategies.