Ultrasound-Mediated Bioeffects in Senescent Mice and Alzheimer’s Mouse Models

Abstract

Ultrasound is routinely used for a wide range of diagnostic imaging applications. However, given that ultrasound can operate over a wide range of parameters that can all be modulated, its applicability extends far beyond the bioimaging field. In fact, the modality has emerged as a hybrid technology that effectively assists drug delivery by transiently opening the blood–brain barrier (BBB) when combined with intravenously injected microbubbles, and facilitates neuromodulation. Studies in aged mice contributed to an insight into how low-intensity ultrasound brings about its neuromodulatory effects, including increased synaptic plasticity and improved cognitive functions, with a potential role for neurogenesis and the modulation of NMDA receptor-mediated neuronal signalling. This work is complemented by studies in mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a form of pathological aging. Here, ultrasound was mainly employed as a BBB-opening tool that clears protein aggregates via microglial activation and neuronal autophagy, thereby restoring cognition. We discuss the currently available ultrasound approaches and how studies in senescent mice are relevant for AD and can accelerate the application of low-intensity ultrasound in the clinic.

Engineering Versatile Nanomedicines for Ultrasonic Tumor Immunotherapy

“…[72] Additionally, there is evidence that UTMD/UTND facilitates the temporary increase of blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability to enhance drug delivery to the brain parenchyma, so that it is possible to perform immunotherapy for cerebral diseases, particularly glioblastoma, as the most fatal brain cancer. [73][74][75][76] BBB-regulating nanovesicles (BRN) loaded with adenosine 2A receptor agonists were developed to achieve targeted BBB regulation by releasing 2A receptor agonists in the presence of ultrasonication (0.5 W cm −2 , 3 min), further inducing the tight connection between F-actin and endothelial cells (Figure 2c). Figure 2d,e shown that PD-L1 antibody alone could not efficiently enter the orthotopic glioblastoma, thereby leading to the clinical failure of anti-PD-L1 therapy for glioblastoma.…”

Recent Advancements in Ultrasound Contrast Agents Based on Nanomaterials for Imaging

“…1 US is capable of transmitting energy with high penetration through biological tissues, making it a widely utilized technology in a diverse range of applications. 2 Recent advancements in nanotechnology have facilitated real-time monitoring and diagnosis of diseases. Notably, the synergistic integration of nanotechnology with ultrasound has garnered significant attention, particularly in the context of ultrasound imaging (USI).…”