Focused ultrasound excites action potentials in mammalian peripheral neurons in part through the mechanically gated ion channel PIEZO2

Abstract

Significance Modulation of peripheral nervous system (PNS) activity has shown promise in treating a wide range of diseases, from epilepsy to rheumatoid arthritis. Clinically, stimulation of nerves is most commonly delivered through invasive and risk-laden surgical electrode placement. Noninvasive technologies for PNS modulation can both increase safety and expand modulation application to various disease stages. Recent studies have revealed the therapeutic potential of noninvasive neuromodulation of brain circuits with ultrasound. This study identifies reliable protocols and molecular mechanisms for stimulating action potentials from individual peripheral neurons in the mammalian nervous system. These findings reveal the translational potential of ultrasound to effectively modulate the PNS through intrinsic neuronal mechanisms.