Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the United States have developed a precise, implantable brain device that uses ultrasound to enhance drug diffusion in tissues surrounding tumors, in an experimental technique that may help reduce the recurrence of brain tumors after surgical removal.
Experiments conducted on models simulating human tissues and in mice showed that activating ultrasound enhanced the diffusion of molecules in brain tissues compared to delivering them without using these waves.
For his part, the website Device mentioned a device implanted in the brain to enhance drug delivery to tumors, in a report published yesterday Monday, stating that the study was published in the scientific journal "Device," and was prepared by a research team led by researcher Sarah Ornelas, with the aim of improving drug delivery to diseased brain tissues.
He added that the device is named "Lucid" and includes a small reservoir for gradual drug delivery, along with 24 precise ultrasound transducers that help push drug molecules to greater distances within the tissues surrounding the tumor, which may contribute to targeting remaining cancer cells after surgery.
The device specifically targets glioblastoma, a type of brain tumor that is difficult to surgically remove all its cells, which may lead to the recurrence and regrowth of the tumor.
He noted that the device is distinguished by its flexibility and thin design, as it includes a microchannel for drug delivery manufactured using 3D printing, and a reservoir that holds about 100 microliters of fluid, while drug pumping relies on a pump powered by osmotic pressure.
He clarified that controlling the activation of ultrasound is done wirelessly using Bluetooth technology, and the waves generate vibrations and micro-currents that help drug molecules diffuse over a wider area of brain tissues, and can also temporarily increase the permeability of the blood-brain barrier.
Researchers hope that the device will contribute in the future to improving the delivery of treatments to cancer cells that may remain after surgery, and the use of the technique for delivering other treatments, including immunotherapies and genetic therapies, can also be explored.
Source: Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA)
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