Work

The anti-inflammatory scan: current insights and future perspectives on therapeutic splenic ultrasonography

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Recent discoveries have identified that physiological anti-inflammatory reflexes are triggered by vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), which offers neuromodulation- performed via implantable or transcutaneous devices-potential therapeutic opportunities. A novel, noninvasive technique using spleen-targeted focused ultrasound stimulation (sFUS) can replicate these effects by triggering the vagus nerve, opening new possibilities for immunomodulation. Early findings suggest that sFUS may evolve into a therapeutic tool to modulate inflammatory responses across a number of diseases. This short communication presents preclinical evidence of efficacy in diverse models of inflammation, discusses the mechanisms underlying sFUS, explores potential translational steps into human application and discusses future directions.

Source: The Ultrasound Journal

DOI: 10.1186/s13089-025-00446-0

Authors: Pierpaolo Di Nicolò, Francesco Corradi

Institutions: Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale Della Romagna, University of Pisa, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Pisana

Language: English

Topic: Ultrasound and Hyperthermia Applications

Subfield: Biomedical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,590