A world-first UK clinical trial is exploring whether focused ultrasound could help improve thinking and memory for people living with Lewy body dementia.
The study brings together Race Against Dementia, the UK Focused Ultrasound Foundation, and research teams at the University of Oxford and University College London. It will test a non-invasive treatment that uses sound waves to gently stimulate areas of the brain linked to memory and attention.
Lewy body dementia affects thinking, movement, communication and behaviour, and currently has no cure. Treatment options are limited and mainly focus on managing symptoms. This trial is the first of its kind to investigate whether low-intensity focused ultrasound can improve cognitive symptoms without surgery or medication.
Rather than using drugs, the technology targets a specific area of the brain involved in producing acetylcholine – a chemical messenger that supports memory and concentration. Researchers hope that stimulating this area will increase acetylcholine levels and improve day-to-day brain function.
The study is led by Dr Ashwini Oswal and funded through Race Against Dementia’s Teams programme, delivered in partnership with medical research charity Rosetrees. The first participant is expected to begin treatment in February 2026, and the trial is currently recruiting in the UK. The launch of this trial has received national media attention, including coverage from BBC News.
Sir Jackie Stewart OBE, Founder of Race Against Dementia, said:
“Fast paced technology is the backbone of Formula 1, it drives performance, safety, and precision. Partnering with the Focused Ultrasound Foundation will enhance our endeavours to apply the same high-tech approach to dementia research and their focus on cutting-edge technology will allow for the acceleration of solutions.”
“Our research aims to test whether a new, non-invasive way of stimulating the brain can improve symptoms and quality of life for people living with Lewy body dementia.”
Dr Ashwini Oswal said:
“I am delighted that our team has received this vital funding through a partnership between Race Against Dementia, the UK Focused Ultrasound Foundation, and the Rosetrees Trust. Our research aims to test whether a new, non-invasive way of stimulating the brain can improve symptoms and quality of life for people living with Lewy body dementia. This is a devastating condition for which there is currently no effective treatment. If successful, our approach could lead to a new therapeutic option for Lewy body dementia and may also inform the treatment of other forms of dementia.”
Philip Keevil, Chair of Trustees at the UK Focused Ultrasound Foundation, said:
“We are proud to be supporting one of our UK-based Focused Ultrasound Foundation Centres of Excellence in tackling dementia – a condition that is on the rise in both the UK and worldwide. The symptoms of dementia can have a significant impact on quality of life and the ability to function, which can be highly distressing, particularly for caregivers and family. This research represents a first step in alleviating that burden in those affected by LBD specifically, while creating hope in the field of neurodegenerative conditions more generally. We await the initial results with enthusiasm.”
If successful, this approach could offer a safe, accessible treatment with quick recovery times – and pave the way for similar research into other forms of dementia and neurodegenerative conditions. People in the UK living with Lewy body dementia who are interested in the study are encouraged to speak with their doctor to learn more.
