Transcranial Focused Ultrasound Stimulation to Enhance Cognition in Healthy Participants

This single-blind, crossover trial investigates the effects of theta-burst transcranial focused ultrasound stimulation (tFUS) on visual working memory (vWM) in healthy participants. The study aims to evaluate cognitive enhancement by selectively targeting and comparing three brain structures associated with cognition: (1) the mediodorsal thalamus, (2) the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, and (3) the anterior insula. Additionally, the lateral ventricle serves as a sham control target.

Each participant will attend four sessions, with each session dedicated to one of the brain structures or the sham site. Sessions consist of three distinct phases: (1) a pre-stimulation phase (task completion prior to tFUS), (2) an on-stimulation phase (task completion concurrent with tFUS), and (3) a post-stimulation phase (task completion following tFUS, with EEG recording). The Object in Place task will be used to assess vWM, requiring participants to recall the colour of abstract objects based on their location or shape.

Primary outcomes focus on both immediate (acute) and delayed (post-stimulation) behavioural changes in task performance, as well as neurophysiological EEG markers indicative of working memory processes. Moreover, the investigators will monitor for immediate and longer-term side effects. Stimulation is administered in a theta-burst pattern for 5 minutes, covering a portion of the task trials during the on-stimulation phase.

This study compares tFUS effects across various deep cortical and subcortical structures, examining acute and post-stimulation cognitive changes and monitoring immediate and longer-term side effects. Findings are expected to offer new insights into the potential of tFUS-based neuromodulation as a tool for cognitive enhancement.

Inclusion criteria

• Age: 18-55years
• Healthy adults with no history of neurological or psychiatric disorders
• Eligible to undergo a T1-weighted MRI scan for tFUS neuronavigational purposes
• Ability to adhere to the tFUS study schedule and complete all assessments
• Right-handed
• Fluent in English
• Abstinence from the use of any recreational drugs in the 48-hour period prior to taking part in the experiment.
• Abstinence from consuming no more than 4 alcoholic units within the 24-hour period before participation.

Exclusion criteria

• Any current psychiatric diagnosis
• Neurodevelopmental disorders; history of central nervous system disease, concussion, or other neurological sequelae; presence of tumors, seizures, meningitis, encephalitis, or any abnormal MRI findings of the brain
• Use of any psychotropic medications within five half-lives before the procedure
• Presence of metal implants contraindicated for MRI
• History of head trauma with loss of consciousness
• Calcification in sonicated parts of the brain.
• Visual impairments that cannot be corrected with glasses
• Inability to complete cognitive testing requirements
• Active participation or plans for enrollment in other clinical trials that may impact psychosocial functioning
• History of repeated substance abuse or dependence (excluding nicotine and caffeine); use of medications such as stimulants, modafinil, thyroid medication, or steroids
• No skin disease on or close to the scalp.
• History of seizure or epilepsy; use of medications that lower seizure thresholds
• Claustrophobia or any other condition precluding MRI assessment
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding