NC West Virginia News

The West Virginia University Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute (RNI) is set to launch pioneering clinical research studies utilizing focused ultrasound neuromodulation to address food addiction, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other conditions. This initiative follows a $2 million supplemental appropriation approved during a special session of the West Virginia Legislature.

This funding will enable RNI to expand its current research efforts, which include using focused ultrasound technology for treating Alzheimer's disease and substance use disorder. Dr. Ali Rezai, executive chair of the RNI, along with WVU President Gordon Gee, hosted Governor Jim Justice, state lawmakers, and WVU academic and Health System leaders on campus to announce this development.

“I want to thank Gov. Justice and our friends in the Legislature,” said Gee. “With their continued support, West Virginia University is on the cutting edge of patient care and neurological research.”

Earlier this year, the RNI team published a first-in-human study in the New England Journal of Medicine, also featured on CBS News' "60 Minutes." The study demonstrated that focused ultrasound combined with anti-amyloid-beta monoclonal antibody treatment can accelerate amyloid-beta plaque clearance in Alzheimer's patients' brains. Initial findings also indicated that focused ultrasound is safe and effective in reducing cravings and drug use among individuals with addiction.

The research team plans to apply similar methods in upcoming clinical trials targeting food addiction cravings and PTSD symptoms among veterans.

“On behalf of the RNI team, I would like to thank Gov. Justice, Speaker Roger Hanshaw, and the West Virginia Legislature for their visionary leadership and support in making West Virginia a world leader in research innovation for the treatment of addictions, PTSD, and Alzheimer’s disease,” stated Rezai.

For more information about the WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute's work, visit WVUMedicine.org/RNI.