Focused Ultrasound for Depression, Anxiety, and OCD

(VANTUS Trial)

This trial tests a new head-worn device, the ATTN201, which uses focused ultrasound to address symptoms of depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The researchers aim to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of this treatment and determine the best application for different brain areas. It targets adults experiencing mild to moderate depression, anxiety, or OCD who have been on the same medication for at least four weeks.

As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research and potentially benefit from an innovative treatment approach.

Previous studies have shown that ultrasound technology, like that used in the ATTN201 device, is safe and free of harmful side effects. Ultrasound employs sound waves instead of radiation, offering a safer alternative. Research indicates that ultrasound is generally well-tolerated and maintains an excellent safety record, even after over 20 years of use in medical imaging. When used correctly by trained professionals, it presents no known risks. This evidence suggests that the ATTN201 head-worn focused ultrasound device should be safe for human use.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about the focused ultrasound treatment for conditions like depression, anxiety, and OCD because it offers a novel, non-invasive way to target specific brain areas. Unlike standard treatments that often involve medications with systemic effects, this method uses a head-worn device to deliver low-intensity focused ultrasound to precise brain regions, such as the basolateral amygdala and dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, among others. This approach allows for targeted modulation of brain activity, potentially offering faster relief and fewer side effects. Additionally, the flexibility of crossing over to different target areas during treatment sessions allows personalized adjustments, which could enhance effectiveness for individual patients.

This trial will evaluate the effectiveness of low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) using the ATTN201 head-worn device. It targets specific brain areas to help manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Participants may receive LIFU targeting the basolateral amygdala, dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, anterior limb of the internal capsule, centromedian nucleus of the thalamus, rostral zona incerta, subthalamic nucleus, or anterior nucleus of the thalamus. Studies have shown that LIFU can improve symptoms of these conditions, with some patients reporting a better quality of life and significant reductions in OCD symptoms. Research indicates that focused ultrasound is a promising non-invasive technique, meaning it doesn't require surgery. Early findings suggest it can be a safe and effective option for people dealing with these mental health conditions.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰