Insightec said today it is partnering with the Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute looking to develop treatments for brain disorders utilizing the company’s Exablate Neuro focused ultrasound device.
The treatments will also utilize Siemens (NYSE:SI) magnetic resonance imaging devices, with potential applications in treating cancer, brain tumors, targeted disruptions of the blood-brain barrier for therapeutic delivery and neuromodulation to treat psychiatric disorders.
“There is considerable basic research to be done in order to develop safe and efficacious protocols for these treatments and we are excited to be one of the research sites to carry this breakthrough technology forward,” research lead Stephen LaConte said in a prepared statement.
“We share a common vision, a culture of discovery and openness, and a commitment to study and develop scientifically validated technological innovations to treat patients with otherwise untreatable brain disorders,” Virginia Tech health sciences & tech VP Michael Friedlander said in prepared remarks.
Collaborative research efforts are being facilitated by the Focused Ultrasound Foundation, which aims to develop new applications for focused ultrasound.
“Collaboration with academic centers of excellence, such as VTCRI, is a key component of Insightec’s heritage of innovation. Collaboration fuels the scientific breakthroughs that ultimately improve patient lives,” Insightec chair & CEO Dr. Maurice Ferré said in a press release.
Last month, Insightec said it raised $150 million in a Series E round of financing led by Koch Industries’ Koch Disruptive Technologies to support its MRI-guided focused ultrasound technologies.
