University of Pittsburgh researchers have developed a novel device and method for focusing and measuring biological tissue shear vibration. This technology enables the noninvasive assessment of local mechanical properties such as elasticity and viscosity in various tissues, including muscles, tendons, nerves, and organs. By utilizing a uniquely designed vibrating element array and a co-aligned ultrasound sensor array, this device offers precise and targeted measurement of shear vibration propagation speed, potentially revolutionizing diagnostic and therapeutic applications in biomedical research.
Description
The device focuses the longitudinal component of shear vibration and measures its propagation speed remotely and noninvasively. It employs a novel ultrasound signal processing algorithm to estimate the ultrasound echo shift continuously. The vibration energy is transferred and focused to target locations using a specially designed vibrating element array, which can be activated by electrical pulses. The propagation speed of the vibration is measured using a co-localized, highly sensitive ultrasound sensor array. This technology can assess the mechanical properties of various tissues, including skeletal muscles, tendons, nerves, cartilages, liver, kidney, cardiovascular, and lymphatic systems, as well as implanted tissue constructs. Additionally, it can be used for therapeutic purposes, such as stimulating muscles, nerves, and brains, and enhancing drug delivery.
Applications
• Noninvasive assessment of tissue elasticity and viscosity
• Diagnostic tool for various tissues and organs
• Therapeutic applications, including muscle and nerve stimulation
• Enhancing drug delivery
Advantages
This device provides a noninvasive method to measure tissue mechanical properties with high precision and accuracy. The use of a co-aligned ultrasound sensor array and a vibrating element array ensures targeted and focused measurement of shear vibration. The device's ability to assess a wide range of tissues and its potential therapeutic applications make it a versatile tool in biomedical research and clinical practice. Additionally, the technology's novel ultrasound signal processing algorithm enhances the accuracy of vibration measurement, providing reliable data for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
Invention Readiness
The technology has been validated through in silico, in vitro, and human subject study. In in a pilot cohort of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) patients with obesity, the prototype has demonstrated successful performance in measuring shear vibration propagation speed and amplitude at depth, comparing well with current gold standard scanners in clinics. In addition, the logistics, operation, and safety in clinical workflow have been demonstrated. The device design includes uniquely designed vibrating elements, which can be activated by electrical pulses, and an acoustic sensor array to steer beams to the vibration-focused area.
IP Status
https://patents.google.com/patent/WO2025217196A1
