Toward an ion-channel-centric approach to ultrasound neuromodulation

Ultrasound neuromodulation is a promising technology that could revolutionize study and treatment of brain conditions ranging from mood disorders to Alzheimer's disease and stroke. An understanding of how ultrasound directly modulates specific ion channels could provide a roadmap for targeting specific neurological circuits and achieving desired neurophysiological outcomes. Although experimental challenges make it difficult to unambiguously identify which ion channels are sensitive to ultrasound in vivo, recent progress indicates that there are likely several different ion channels involved, including members of the K2P, Piezo, and transient receptor potential (TRP) channel families. A recent result linking TRP melastatin 2 channels in the hypothalamus to the induction of torpor by ultrasound in rodents demonstrates the feasibility of targeting a specific ion channel in a specific population of neurons.