Can sound waves tame the autonomic nervous system?

NCT ID NCT05834829

ENROLLING_BY_INVITATION Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study explores whether low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) aimed at specific brain regions can influence how the body controls automatic functions like heart rate and blood pressure. Researchers will apply LIFU or a sham (fake) version to 80 volunteers and measure changes during a cold-water hand immersion test. The goal is to understand if this non-invasive technique can alter autonomic control, which could one day help people with autonomic dysfunction.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) device
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward a non-invasive brain stimulation treatment for autonomic dysfunction.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study focused on measuring physiological responses, not treating disease. The intervention is experimental and may not produce meaningful clinical benefits.

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.

primary dysautonomia

As listed by the trial registrant

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

AUTONOMIC DYSFUNCTION

Contacts and locations

Locations

Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC

Roanoke, Virginia, 24016, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.