Neural Regeneration Research ›› 2026, Vol. 21 ›› Issue (5): 1910-1925.doi: 10.4103/NRR.NRR-D-24-01191

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Photoacoustic technologies in nervous system disorders: An emerging strategy for neuromodulation

Chenyuan Ding1, 2, #, Penghao Liu1, 2, #, Zhuofan Xu1, 2, Yuanchen Cheng1, 2, Han Yu3, 4, Lei Cheng1, 2, Zan Chen1, 2, Fengzeng Jian1, 2, *, Wanru Duan1, 2, *   

  1. 1 Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China;  2 Laboratory of Spinal Cord Injury and Functional Reconstruction, China International Neuroscience Institute (CHNA-INI), Beijing, China;  3 Department of Chemistry, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory of Optoelectronic and Magnetic Functional Materials, Energy Institute and Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration & Reconstruction, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China;  4 Hong Kong University of Science and Technology-Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
  • Online:2026-05-15 Published:2025-08-21
  • Contact: Wanru Duan, MD, duanwanru@xwhosp.org; Fengzeng Jian, MD, jianfengzeng@xwh.ccmu.edu.cn.
  • Supported by:
    This work was supported by the National Key R&D Program of China, No. 2023YFC2509700; the Beijing Natural Science Foundation-Haidian Original Innovation Joint Fund, No. L232141; and the Research and Application of Clinical Characteristic Diagnosis and Treatment Program, No. Z221100007422019 (all to WD).

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Abstract: Spinal cord injury is a severe neurological disorder; however, current treatment methods often fail to restore nerve function effectively. Spinal cord stimulation via electrical signals is a promising therapeutic modality for spinal cord injury. Based on similar principles, this review aims to explore the potential of optical and acoustic neuromodulation techniques, emphasizing their benefits in the context of spinal cord injury. Photoacoustic imaging, renowned for its noninvasive nature, high-resolution capabilities, and cost-effectiveness, is well recognized for its role in early diagnosis, dynamic monitoring, and surgical guidance in stem cell therapies for spinal cord injury. Moreover, photoacoustodynamic therapy offers multiple pathways for tissue regeneration. Optogenetics and sonogenetics use genetic engineering to achieve precise neuronal activation, while photoacoustoelectric therapy leverages photovoltaic materials for electrical modulation of the nervous system, introducing an innovative paradigm for nerve system disorder management. Collectively, these advancements represent a transformative shift in the diagnosis and treatment of spinal cord injury, with the potential to significantly enhance nerve function remodeling and improve patient outcomes.

Key words: neuromodulation, optogenetics, photoacoustic imaging, photoacoustodynamic therapy, spinal cord injury