Tests focused ultrasound on brain circuits for voice-hearing in schizophrenia
Tests low-intensity focused ultrasound in adults with schizophrenia and auditory hallucinations.
Plain-language title generated from the registry record
Registry title: LIFU Effects & Outcomes: Mechanisms Evaluating Striatal Systems Imaging (LEO MESSI)
Key facts
- Where
- San Francisco, United StatesSee the site
Could this be for you?
Answer for yourself. This is not a decision: only the study team can say whether you can take part.
- Are you between 18 and 64 years old?
Source: NCT07710989, who can take part
Where in United States
- University of California San FranciscoSan Francisco, United StatesNo longer taking part
Questions to ask the study team
- How often do I need to come in, and for how long each time?
- Are travel costs paid?
- Can I keep my own doctor?
- What happens if I want to stop?
Trial details
- Who runs it
- University of California, San Francisco
- Trial code
- NCT07710989
- Record updated
- 5 August 2026
- Original description
Individuals with schizophrenia often experience persistent auditory hallucinations despite treatment with antipsychotic medications. Research suggests that abnormal communication between the striatum and the auditory cortex contributes to hallucinations. This first-in-human, proof-of-concept Phase 1 study will evaluate the safety, feasibility, and preliminary effects of repeated-session low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU), a non-invasive neuromodulation technique targeting the striatum. The study will examine whether LIFU can safely modulate brain circuits involved in hallucinations, reduce abnormal communication between the striatum and auditory cortex, and improve auditory hallucination symptoms.Read full original descriptionShow less
Mechanisms of Low-intensity Focused Ultrasound Targeting Striatal Circuits Underlying Auditory Hallucinations in Schizophrenia
Individuals with schizophrenia often experience persistent auditory hallucinations despite treatment with antipsychotic medications. Research suggests that abnormal communication between the striatum and the auditory cortex contributes to hallucinations. This first-in-human, proof-of-concept Phase 1 study will evaluate the safety, feasibility, and preliminary effects of repeated-session low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU), a non-invasive neuromodulation technique targeting the striatum. The study will examine whether LIFU can safely modulate brain circuits involved in hallucinations, reduce abnormal communication between the striatum and auditory cortex, and improve auditory hallucination symptoms.
Inclusion: 18-64 years of age, inclusive of all gender identities; Current DSM-5 diagnosis of schizophrenia; Persistent clinically-significant auditory hallucinations; No contraindications for MRI, confirmed via standard safety screening procedures; No neurological disorder; Clinically stable (outpatient past 12 weeks; same dose medications in 4 weeks); Females will be tested for pregnancy and pregnant women will be excluded.
Exclusion: Clinically significant neurological disorder or MRI incompatibility.