Department of Biomedical Engineering
Mentor: Alik Widge, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
Project: Validation of Low-intensity Focused Ultrasound (LIFU) Neuromodulation in Human Motor Cortex
Steve Adams studies a new, non-invasive technology designed to support people who have difficulty shifting their attention or behavior, even when they want to. The approach uses carefully targeted sound waves to gently support brain systems involved in attention and flexibility, helping people adapt more easily as their environment or goals change.
Steve is especially motivated by the potential to help people who experience sensory distress. This is a common challenge for individuals with conditions such as ADHD, autism, anxiety, and depression. Sensory distress can make everyday activities like going to work, attending school, or spending time with others feel overwhelming.
At present, caregivers and clinicians have limited tools specifically aimed at reducing this kind of sensory overload. He is excited to work on a technology that may offer a new option for people whose daily lives are shaped by these challenges.
Roughly one in ten Minnesotans lives with a condition that can involve sensory overload. Many people describe themselves as homebodies, but for some, that preference is shaped less by choice and more by sensory barriers. Supporting people in navigating these challenges can help more Minnesotans participate in work, education, and community life in the ways they want to.
Beyond sensory distress, this same technology may have applications for other conditions. They are currently studying or collaborating on its potential use for pain, depression, and related symptoms.
The technology Steve uses is literally just sound. It operates at frequencies higher than humans can hear and requires specialized speakers to produce it. You can think of it as a very precise signal that nudges specific brain systems to be more responsive, rather than louder or stronger. That subtlety is part of what makes the approach both interesting and challenging to study.
