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How scientists are using sound waves to hack the brain


Korean researchers have developed a new form of ultrasound brain stimulation that could help the brain form new connections.

Not only can sound waves penetrate deep into the brain, but they can also be controlled with surprising precision, giving doctors the ability to stimulate specific regions without subjecting patients to invasive surgeries. In previous studies, ultrasound brain stimulation has shown promise in treating depression, chronic pain, and Alzheimer’s, but there’s still a lot about the approach that researchers don’t fully understand, including how it works and how long its effects can last. It’s possible the technique might even be able to improve learning for people who aren’t dealing with a health issue — imagine a future where a few minutes of noninvasive ultrasound stimulation prior to training could help you master a new skill more quickly.

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