Systems and methods for neuromodulation of neuronal circuits using transcranial focused microwave pulses
AssigneeBrainsonix Corporation
InventorsAlexander BYSTRITSKY, Alexander David LAPIDUS
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Abstract
Embodiments provide for systems and methods for modulating activity of a live neuronal circuit within the brain of a mammal. In one example, a method comprises applying a focused microwave pulse to a focal spot corresponding to the live neuronal circuit, while simultaneously monitoring a brain image produced by a brain imaging system. In this way, the focused microwave pulse may be used to transiently modulate the function of the live neuronal circuit, as guided by anatomical and functional information provided via the brain imaging system, useful for both research purposes and for treating psychiatric, neurological and neuroendocrine disorders.
Claims30
A method for modulating activity of a live neuronal circuit within the brain of a mammal, the method comprising:
- generating a focused microwave pulse (FMWP);
- applying the FMWP to a focal spot corresponding to the live neuronal circuit, to activate or inhibit the live neuronal circuit;
- and
- monitoring a brain image produced by a brain imaging system during the application of the FMWP.
A system for modulating an activity of a live neuronal circuit within the brain of a mammal via a focused microwave pulse (FMWP), comprising:
- a microwave generator;
- a waveguide assembly;
- a focusing lens;
- a controller to command the microwave generator to produce a microwave input signal that is received by the waveguide and transformed via the waveguide into a microwave output signal, the microwave output signal in turn focused via the focusing lens to yield the LFMWP directed to a focal spot within the brain of the mammal to modulate the activity of the live neuronal circuit.
One or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media with an executable program stored thereon for modulating activity of a live neuronal circuit within the brain of a mammal, wherein the executable program instructs a microprocessor to perform the operations of:
- controlling a microwave generator to produce a microwave input signal that is to be provided to a mode converter system to convert the microwave input signal to a microwave output signal, the microwave output signal to be radiated into free space and focused via a lens to yield a focused microwave pulse (FMWP) that is to be applied to a focal spot corresponding to the live neuronal circuit;
- receiving an image of the brain from a brain image system during application of the FMWP;
- and
- sending the image to a display for viewing by a user.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.