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LIFU Effects & Outcomes: Mechanisms Evaluating Striatal Systems Imaging (LEO MESSI)
Sponsor: University of California, San Francisco
Summary
Individuals with schizophrenia often experience persistent auditory hallucinations despite treatment with antipsychotic medications. Research suggests that abnormal communication between the striatum and the auditory cortex contributes to hallucinations. This first-in-human, proof-of-concept Phase 1 study will evaluate the safety, feasibility, and preliminary effects of repeated-session low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU), a non-invasive neuromodulation technique targeting the striatum. The study will examine whether LIFU can safely modulate brain circuits involved in hallucinations, reduce abnormal communication between the striatum and auditory cortex, and improve auditory hallucination symptoms.
Official title: Mechanisms of Low-intensity Focused Ultrasound Targeting Striatal Circuits Underlying Auditory Hallucinations in Schizophrenia
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 64 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
12
Start Date
2027-02-01
Completion Date
2027-12-01
Last Updated
2026-08-05
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
LIFU
MRI-guided, neuronavigated low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) delivered to the caudate target will be compared to sham unfocused sonication delivered using the same device and procedures as the active intervention but without focal ultrasound energy to the target.
Locations (1)
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, California, United States