Sound waves aimed at brain may quiet schizophrenia symptoms

NCT ID NCT05259306

Terminated Symptom relief Sponsor: NYU Langone Health Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This pilot study tests whether low-intensity focused ultrasound, guided by MRI, can safely and feasibly target a deep brain region (the thalamus) in people with treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Only 3 participants were planned, and the study is currently suspended. The goal is to see if the procedure is practical and to measure any changes in symptoms like hallucinations.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: MRI-guided low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) device
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a new way to ease symptoms of treatment-resistant schizophrenia without surgery or medication.
What could go wrong: This is a very early pilot study with only 3 participants and is currently suspended. It tests feasibility, not effectiveness, so results may not lead to a treatment.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Schizophrenia, Treatment-Resistant treatment-refractory schizophrenia

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

TREATMENT-RESISTANT SCHIZOPHRENIA

Contacts and locations

Locations

NYU Langone Health

New York, New York, 10016, United States

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