A new method called sonobiopsy,developed by researchers at Washington University in St.Louis(WUSTL,St. Louis,Mo,USA;www.medicine.wustl.edu),uses ultrasound technology and microbubbles to temporarily disrupt the blood-brain barrier,allowing vital molecules like RNA,DNA,and proteins to move into the bloodstream where they can be detected and studied.

The researchers who had developed and previously tested the technique in animals have now demonstrated the technique to be feasible and safe for use in humans,paving the way for noninvasive biopsies for suspected brain tumors and other brain diseases.

The new device can be seamlessly incorporated into existing medical procedures without the need for extra training for the neurosurgeons involved.