Breakthrough Study Unveils Potential of Low-Frequency Ultrasound in Improving Oxygen Delivery
Kaunas University of Technology and Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Collaborate on Groundbreaking Research
A new study by a team of scientists from Kaunas University of Technology and the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences has shed new light on the ability of low-frequency ultrasound to influence blood parameters and improve oxygen saturation, as well as on the underlying mechanism by which ultrasound interacts with blood components.
This creates exciting possibilities for developing non-pharmaceutical treatments to manage conditions where oxygen delivery is compromised, including COVID-19 and other viral infections that impair respiratory function. The study suggests that harnessing the power of sound waves may improve patient outcomes.
Artificial Intelligence Techniques Aid in Analyzing Changes in Blood Parameters
Three hundred blood samples were collected from 42 pulmonary patients. They were exposed to six different low-frequency ultrasound modes at KTU’s Institute of Mechatronics. The changes in 20 blood parameters were then analyzed using advanced blood analysis equipment at LSMU’s laboratories, with the aid of artificial intelligence techniques (1).
The calculations were performed at KTU’s Artificial Intelligence Centre. The findings of this study revealed the profound impact of low-frequency ultrasound on blood components.
Low-Frequency Ultrasound’s Impact on Blood Components
Dissociation of Red Blood Cell Clumps Enhances Oxygen Saturation
Red blood cells carry hemoglobin, which transports oxygen from the lungs to all parts of the body. Normally, these red blood cells tend to stick together in clumps or aggregates (2).
The researchers found that when they exposed blood samples to low-frequency ultrasound waves, these clumps of red blood cells broke apart into individual cells. This process is called dissociation (2).
Increased Surface Area for Hemoglobin-Oxygen Interaction
When the red blood cells are separated from each other, the hemoglobin inside them can interact with oxygen more efficiently because the surface area available for this interaction increases. This leads to improved oxygen saturation in the blood, meaning more oxygen can be carried by the blood (2).
Reduced Blood Viscosity Improves Blood Flow and Lowers Blood Pressure
Additionally, researchers observed that when the red blood cells are dissociated and separated, there is less space between them in a given volume of blood compared to when they are clumped together (2).
This reduction in the spaces between the cells decreases the thickness or viscosity of the blood, allowing the blood to flow more easily through our blood vessels. This has the potential to lower blood pressure, which can provide additional therapeutic benefits, as high blood pressure can lead to various health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease (2).
Promising Applications in Medical Conditions with Impaired Oxygen Delivery
Oxygen is the fundamental fuel that powers our bodies, and its efficient delivery to tissues and organs maintains optimal health and well-being. Various medical conditions, such as pulmonary diseases, cardiovascular disorders, and injuries, can impair the body’s ability to effectively transport and utilize oxygen, leading to a range of complications, including tissue damage, organ dysfunction, and even life-threatening situations (1).
Improving oxygen saturation in the blood has been a longstanding challenge in the medical field, with researchers exploring various pharmaceutical and interventional approaches. However, these methods often have potential side effects, invasiveness, or limited effectiveness, highlighting the need for innovative, non-invasive solutions (1).
The groundbreaking insights of this study have uncovered a promising non-invasive approach to enhancing oxygen delivery and circulation, paving the way for potential applications in various medical conditions (1).
Potential Treatment for Pulmonary Hypertension Patients
One of the most promising applications lies in the treatment of pulmonary hypertension patients, where improving oxygen saturation in the lungs could alleviate symptoms and enhance quality of life.
Moreover, the findings open up new avenues for exploring the use of low-frequency ultrasound in respiratory diseases, including the management of COVID-19 and other viral infections that impair respiratory function. By enhancing oxygen circulation, this non-invasive approach could potentially aid in the recovery process and mitigate the severity of respiratory distress.
With its ability to modulate blood parameters and improve oxygen delivery, this innovative technology holds promise for a wide range of therapeutic applications, paving the way for more effective and personalized treatment strategies.
Future Directions and Implications
Need for Further Research and Clinical Trials
While the findings of this study are promising, there is still a need for further research and clinical trials to fully understand the implications and potential applications of low-frequency ultrasound in improving oxygen delivery. Rigorous testing and validation will ensure the safety and efficacy of this approach before it can be widely adopted in clinical settings (1).
Additionally, researchers will need to optimize the ultrasound parameters and delivery methods to achieve the desired therapeutic effects while minimizing any potential risks or side effects. This may involve exploring different frequencies, intensities, and exposure durations, as well as developing specialized devices or delivery systems tailored for specific applications (1).
Potential Applications Beyond Respiratory and Cardiovascular Conditions, Stroke, Peripheral Artery Disease, and Wound Healing
Furthermore, the researchers should explore the potential of low-frequency ultrasound in other therapeutic areas beyond respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. The ability to modulate blood parameters and enhance oxygen circulation could have implications for conditions such as stroke, peripheral artery disease, and even wound healing, where oxygen delivery plays a crucial role in the healing process (1).
The research conducted by the team from KTU and LSMU represents a significant stride towards unlocking the potential of low-frequency ultrasound as a non-invasive and innovative approach to improving oxygen delivery in the body.
By harnessing the power of sound waves, this technology offers a promising alternative to traditional pharmaceutical interventions, potentially reducing side effects and enhancing patient outcomes.
The implications of these findings extend beyond the realm of respiratory diseases, with the potential to impact a wide range of medical conditions where oxygen delivery is compromised. From pulmonary hypertension and COVID-19 management to stroke rehabilitation and wound healing, the applications of this technology are vast and far-reaching (1).
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References
- Kaunas University of Technology. (2024, January 22). Low-frequency ultrasound can improve oxygen saturation in blood. ScienceDaily. Retrieved May 19, 2024 from.
- Ostasevicius, V., Paulauskaite-Taraseviciene, A., Lesauskaite, V., Jurenas, V., Tatarunas, V., Stankevicius, E., Tunaityte, A., Venslauskas, M., & Kizauskiene, L. (2023). Prediction of changes in blood parameters induced by low-frequency ultrasound. Applied System Innovation, 6(6), 99.
