Functional Ultrasound (fUS) Neuroimaging System - PROJECT SUMMARY We propose to purchase a new Iconeus One functional ultrasound (fUS) neuroimaging system from the company, Iconeus, to enhance the biomedical ultrasound and neuroimaging capabilities of the Imaging Research Core of Case Western Reserve University (CWRU). The fUS system offers unique capabilities in the neuroimaging space, which are currently unmet by any other instrument. More specifically, fUS fills a critical gap between functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), positron emission tomography (PET), and standard small animal optical imaging methods by providing a method of acquiring ultra-fast (1 Mhz), high-resolution (<50 micron spatial resolution) data, which is highly sensitive to changes in cerebral blood volume and vascular morphology. The main points of distinction of the fUS system from fMRI are 1) the ability to acquire at an unprecedented temporal and spatial resolution changes of brain vasculature and cerebral blood flow in awake, mobile mice and rats; 2) a mobile, plug-and-play platform that can be relocated easily, if need be, to the site of an experiment; and 3) substantially lower cost and greater accessibility compared to an fMRI scanner. Moreover, it does not require the high maintenance costs of an MRI. Acquisition of this system would add value and advance numerous ongoing projects in brain imaging, neural engineering, deep brain stimulation, neurodegenerative diseases, pain, and development of theranostics for neuro-oncology applications. The fUS system would be the first of its kind in the greater Cleveland area and would enable investigators from CWRU and the surrounding four clinical affiliates (the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Louis Stokes Cleveland Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, and The MetroHealth System) to carry out cutting edge research in these very important fields. This new preclinical fUS capability will also be available to all regional investigators. A highly interdisciplinary group of 16 Major Users from all these institutions will work on collaborative projects using the Iconeus One. Ultimately, our goal in acquiring this advanced neuroimaging technology is to better visualize, design, evaluate, and translate treatments for neurological disorders. An advisory committee of highly experienced ultrasound and neuroimaging faculty at CWRU and external institutions will oversee the organization and usage of the system and recommend policies to maintain system performance and maximize utilization. These advancements will drive our research forward and ultimately improve human health.
