Dr. Chen, Chih-Cheng 's publons link picture

Dr. Chen, Chih-Cheng

Deputy Director
Distinguished Research Fellow
  • 02-2652-3917
  • 02-2782-9224 (Fax)

Specialty:
  • Pain
  • Neurosensory Mechanotransduction

Education and Positions:
  • Ph.D. University College London, UK


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ASIC1a is required for neuronal activation via low-intensity ultrasound stimulation in mouse brain

Dr. Chen, Chih-Cheng
eLife, Sep 27, 2021

 

 

CNS neurons have no sensory function, protected by the skull. For this reason, brain neuromodulation by ultrasound were either done at a high intensity or through auditory nerves. We demonstrate in this study CNS neurons react to ultrasound stimulation at an intensity (5 mW/cm2) far lower than typical therapeutic ultrasound (>30 mW/cm2). Using micropipette ultrasound in calcium imaging, we show ASIC1a channels play a role in the reactions of CNS neurons to ultrasound, pointing to the molecular basis for direct ultrasound neuromodulation at low intensity. Furthermore, we also show evidence of neurogenesis with the same ultrasound stimulation, suggesting potential therapeutic translation.