The Use of Focused Ultrasound and DCE K-trans Imaging to Evaluate Permeability of the Blood-Brain Barrier

Description

Treatment of intrinsic brain diseases is challenging because brain barrier (BBB) limits the delivery of drugs, particulates and cellular elements such as stem cells to the central nervous system (CNS). This limitation is often circumvented with neurosurgical techniques, however, less invasive approaches may be desirable particularly for widespread or multifocal disease and when long term and repetitive administration is required.

The diagnosis for the participants will be either low grade gliomas. A baseline fMRI and follow up routine fMRI’s will be taken and evaluated for any changes in perfusion. During the scans, The ultrasound placement will last for one hour.

This study seeks to investigate the efficacy of focused ultrasound in opening the blood brain barrier. This physiological effect would have significant clinical applications. The ability to open the blood brain barrier has the potential to revolutionize the delivery of therapeutic agents to the brain, allowing for more localized and efficient delivery. There are no immediate benefits for patients who choose to participate; however, the information gained from this study will contribute to the research base and help patients in similar situations in the future.