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Updated: Jun 24, 2026
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Whole-Brain 3D Activation and Functional Connectivity Mapping in Mice using Transcranial Functional Ultrasound Imaging
Published on: February 24, 2021
Low-Intensity Transcranial Ultrasound Stimulation Improves Motor Behavior and Modulates Cortical Functional Network
Shaopo Wan1,2, Qianqian Wang1,2, Yanan Wang3
1School of Electrical Engineering, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao 066004, Hebei, China.
Summary
Low-intensity transcranial ultrasound stimulation (TUS) improved motor function in stroke mice by reorganizing cortical networks. This ultrasound therapy enhances brain connectivity, aiding post-stroke recovery and motor function restoration.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biomedical Engineering
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Ischemic stroke impairs motor function due to disruptions in cortical functional networks.
- Low-intensity transcranial ultrasound stimulation (TUS) shows potential for improving motor behavior in stroke patients.
- The link between TUS-induced motor improvement and cortical network reorganization post-stroke requires clarification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if motor function improvement after TUS in ischemic stroke mice is associated with cortical functional network reorganization.
- To explore the relationship between TUS, gait behavior, and cortical network dynamics.
- To provide mechanistic insights into TUS for post-stroke motor recovery.
Main Methods:
- Constructed an ischemic stroke mouse model (male C57BL/6 mice).
- Simultaneously recorded local field potentials and gait behavior during free walking.
- Analyzed gait parameters, cortical functional network connectivity, and topology before and after TUS intervention.
- Correlated behavioral improvements with changes in network connectivity.
Main Results:
- TUS significantly improved motor function and gait parameters in stroke mice.
- TUS modulated cortical functional network connectivity, restoring it towards a healthy state.
- Enhanced global information integration and local separation efficiency were observed.
- TUS-induced network changes positively correlated with behavioral recovery.
Conclusions:
- Motor improvement following low-intensity TUS is accompanied by significant cortical functional network reorganization.
- This network reorganization likely contributes to functional recovery after stroke.
- TUS offers a promising therapeutic strategy for stroke rehabilitation by restoring neural network function.
