Treatment of Brain Tumors in a Mouse Model Using Sonodynamic Therapy

Begin with an anesthetized nude mouse bearing a brain tumor in a magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) system.

The mouse has been previously injected with a sonosensitizer precursor.

This precursor accumulates in the mitochondria of tumor cells due to their high metabolic activity and is converted into a sonosensitizer.

Apply ultrasound gel to the scalp and place a water bath with its bottom membrane in contact with the gel.

Submerge the ultrasound transducer in the water bath.

Using previously acquired MR images of the brain, identify the tumor.

Position the transducer over the tumor site and deliver focused ultrasound waves to perform

sonodynamic therapy.

The coupled water bath and gel serve as an acoustic medium for efficient ultrasound transmission.

The ultrasound activates the sonosensitizer, which converts molecular oxygen into reactive oxygen species (ROS).

These sonosensitizer-generated ROS induce oxidative stress, leading to cell death and reduced tumor proliferation.

Place a dab of centrifuged ultrasound gel on the animal's head, such that the gel covers the entire scalp above the skull. Then fill 80%of the water bath with deionized and degassed water and place the w