Ultrasound for slow multiple sclerosis

Pablo Villoslada

Institut Hospital del Mar d’Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune neurodegenerative disease that causes damage to the central nervous system, leading to loss of function in different parts of the body. The progression of the disease can lead to permanent disability due to damage to the nervous system, particularly the spinal cord. In this context, neurostimulation emerges as a promising strategy to slow the progression of this condition, specifically through the application of focused ultrasound. 

Currently, a therapy using high-intensity focused ultrasound is already approved to treat Parkinson’s disease and tremors. However, there is no device on the market that applies low-intensity ultrasound to the spinal cord, which would be suitable for multiple sclerosis as it is able to modulate the activity of neurons and glial cells. Previous studies in animal models have shown that repetitive application of this ultrasound fosters brain plasticity, prevents neuronal death and neuroinflammation and promotes repair of the nervous system. 

Therefore, in this project, the researchers aim to develop a low-intensity focused ultrasound device to stimulate the spinal cord of patients with multiple sclerosis. They will also create software capable of evaluating the patient’s anatomy and determining the most suitable angle for applying the therapy. Ultimately, they will assess patients’ tolerability to this treatment. The goal is to produce a prototype capable of administering low-intensity ultrasound in a personalised manner to slow down the progression of the disease.

Focused ultrasound therapy for repairing spinal cord in people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Stage 1