Curing with Sound

In this episode of Curing with Sound, three leading experts in focused ultrasound technology share their groundbreaking work in pancreatic cancer treatment. Dr. Feng Wu from Oxford University, Dr. Jae Young Lee from Seoul National University Hospital, and Dr. Joan Vidal-Jové from Barcelona's Comprehensive Tumor Center discuss their innovative approaches to treating one of medicine's most challenging cancers using noninvasive focused ultrasound techniques. The episode provides insights into the evolution and future of focused ultrasound technology in cancer treatment. The experts detail how their work addresses key challenges in pancreatic cancer treatment, from enhancing drug delivery to activating immune responses. Key Points: Focused ultrasound technology shows particular promise in addressing the unique challenges of pancreatic cancer, including the ability to precisely target tumors while preserving surrounding critical structures. Multiple treatment pathways are being explored simultaneously: thermal ablation (HIFU), mechanical stimulation for drug delivery enhancement, and histotripsy for immune system activation, offering new hope for patients with limited treatment options. Dr. Lee shares exciting results from his phase II clinical trial combining focused ultrasound with chemotherapy, achieving a 63% objective response rate. Dr. Wu discusses combining HIFU ablation with drug delivery to overcome limitations in treating pancreatic cancer. Dr. Vidal-Jové reveals how histotripsy treatment has shown remarkable immune system activation effects.  SHOW TRANSCRIPT ---------------------------- QUESTIONS? Email podcast@fusfoundation.org if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances.  Email info@fusfoundation.org if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation.  FUSF SOCIAL MEDIA LinkedIn X Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube FUSF WEBSITE https://www.fusfoundation.org SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER https://www.fusfoundation.org/newsletter-signup/ READ THE LATEST NEWSLETTER https://www.fusfoundation.org/the-foundation/news-media/newsletter/ DOWNLOAD "THE TUMOR" BY JOHN GRISHAM (FREE E-BOOK) https://www.fusfoundation.org/read-the-tumor-by-john-grisham/

In this compelling episode of Curing with Sound, Rima Youssef shares her transformative journey battling severe obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) since childhood. Learn how a focused ultrasound clinical trial at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center offered hope when traditional treatments failed, leading to a remarkable turnaround in Rima's life. Rima's story is a testament to the potential of focused ultrasound in treating neurological disorders. From the onset of her symptoms at age six to participating in a groundbreaking clinical trial at Sunnybrook in 2021, Rima candidly discusses her struggles with debilitating OCD and the impact of the focused ultrasound procedure on her recovery. Her experience sheds light on the challenges of living with treatment-resistant OCD and the life-changing potential of this innovative, noninvasive technology. Key points from the conversation: Rima's OCD journey, including early onset at age 6 and escalation of symptoms that by age 12, left her unable to attend school or even play outside Rima's decision to participate in the focused ultrasound clinical trial and her experience with the procedure The gradual improvement in Rima's symptoms post-treatment, allowing her to return to work and regain a sense of normalcy in her life Rima's advocacy for wider accessibility of focused ultrasound treatment for OCD patients SHOW TRANSCRIPT ---------------------------- QUESTIONS? Email podcast@fusfoundation.org if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances.  Email info@fusfoundation.org if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation.  FUSF SOCIAL MEDIA LinkedIn X Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube FUSF WEBSITE https://www.fusfoundation.org SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER https://www.fusfoundation.org/newsletter-signup/ READ THE LATEST NEWSLETTER https://www.fusfoundation.org/the-foundation/news-media/newsletter/ DOWNLOAD "THE TUMOR" BY JOHN GRISHAM (FREE E-BOOK) https://www.fusfoundation.org/read-the-tumor-by-john-grisham/

In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Greg Czarnota, a senior scientist and radiation oncologist at Sunnybrook Research Institute in Toronto, discusses his innovative research using focused ultrasound in breast cancer treatment. Dr. Czarnota shares promising results from his phase I clinical trial using focused ultrasound-stimulated microbubbles to enhance radiotherapy in patients with advanced breast cancers. Key points from the conversation include: The origins of Dr. Czarnota's interest in focused ultrasound and its application in enhancing radiotherapy. He shares details of the upcoming phase II clinical trials that will be enrolling patients with inoperable breast cancer. Technical advances with the Arrayus focused ultrasound device could treat larger and more complex tumors. Dr. Czarnota has also developed ultrasound imaging methods to detect cell death. SHOW TRANSCRIPT ---------------------------- QUESTIONS? Email podcast@fusfoundation.org if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances.  Email info@fusfoundation.org if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation.  FUSF SOCIAL MEDIA LinkedIn X Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube FUSF WEBSITE https://www.fusfoundation.org SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER https://www.fusfoundation.org/newsletter-signup/ READ THE LATEST NEWSLETTER https://www.fusfoundation.org/the-foundation/news-media/newsletter/ DOWNLOAD "THE TUMOR" BY JOHN GRISHAM (FREE E-BOOK) https://www.fusfoundation.org/read-the-tumor-by-john-grisham/  

In this episode of Curing with Sound, Jane Metcalfe, entrepreneur, editor, and co-founder of Wired magazine, shares her insights on the intersection of technology, biology, and healthcare. She explains her role as co-chair of the Focused Ultrasound Foundation’s Council and her passion for advancing this groundbreaking noninvasive technology. Metcalfe emphasizes the potential of focused ultrasound to revolutionize medical treatments for various conditions and speaks to the importance of raising awareness among patients and medical professionals. She discusses the challenges facing the adoption of focused ultrasound, including lack of awareness, economic barriers, and the need for changes in medical education. Key points from the conversation include: The unique approach Wired magazine took in covering technology, focusing on its societal impact rather than just technical specifications. The concept of the "neobiological revolution" and its potential to transform our understanding of human health and medical treatments. Metcalfe's introduction to focused ultrasound technology and her role in advocating for its adoption as co-chair of the Focused Ultrasound Foundation’s Council. Metcalfe's views on the accelerating progress in focused ultrasound research and the potential for disrupting traditional healthcare models. SHOW TRANSCRIPT ---------------------------- QUESTIONS? Email podcast@fusfoundation.org if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances.  Email info@fusfoundation.org if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation.  FUSF SOCIAL MEDIA LinkedIn X Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube FUSF WEBSITE https://www.fusfoundation.org SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER https://www.fusfoundation.org/newsletter-signup/ READ THE LATEST NEWSLETTER https://www.fusfoundation.org/the-foundation/news-media/newsletter/ DOWNLOAD "THE TUMOR" BY JOHN GRISHAM (FREE E-BOOK) https://www.fusfoundation.org/read-the-tumor-by-john-grisham/

In this episode, we meet Bobby Krause, a former college athlete and sales executive who was diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson's disease at age 42. Bobby candidly discusses his struggle with debilitating tremors that impacted his ability to engage with his family and perform at work. After experiencing severe side effects from medications, Bobby turned to focused ultrasound treatment for help.   Bobby provides a vivid account of the focused ultrasound procedure, describing the immediate and profound results he experienced. Within hours, his tremors disappeared and muscle rigidity eased, allowing him to hike with his sons the very same day. Bobby remains tremor-free and has returned to coaching basketball and other activities he previously enjoyed.   Now a passionate advocate for focused ultrasound technology, Bobby has spoken to U.S. policymakers about his experience and founded the Be Still Foundation. The foundation aims to provide financial assistance for those seeking focused ultrasound treatment and raise awareness about this innovative technology. The patient story shared above is a personal account of an individual’s experience with focused ultrasound treatment. Please be aware that each patient’s situation is unique, and outcomes may vary. The information provided in this story should not be considered as medical advice or a guarantee of specific results. It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to discuss your condition and determine the best treatment options for you. The Focused Ultrasound Foundation does not endorse any specific treatment or medical procedure and encourages all patients to seek professional medical guidance tailored to their individual needs. Be Still Foundation SHOW TRANSCRIPT ---------------------------- QUESTIONS? Email podcast@fusfoundation.org if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances.  Email info@fusfoundation.org if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation.  FUSF SOCIAL MEDIA LinkedIn X Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube FUSF WEBSITE https://www.fusfoundation.org SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER https://www.fusfoundation.org/newsletter-signup/ READ THE LATEST NEWSLETTER https://www.fusfoundation.org/the-foundation/news-media/newsletter/ DOWNLOAD "THE TUMOR" BY JOHN GRISHAM (FREE E-BOOK) https://www.fusfoundation.org/read-the-tumor-by-john-grisham/

In this episode, we speak with Gavin and Wendy Lindberg, founders of The EVAN Foundation, and Dena Sherwood, founder of Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation. These passionate advocates, each profoundly impacted by childhood cancer, share their personal stories and discuss how their organizations support families, fund crucial research including innovative treatments like focused ultrasound, and raise awareness for pediatric cancers. The guests share heartfelt stories about their foundations' programs, including The EVAN Foundation's Treats and Treasures Carts and scholarship initiatives, and Arms Wide Open's family support services and research funding efforts. They emphasize the urgent need for increased funding for childhood cancer research and explore the potential of focused ultrasound technology in treating childhood cancers, highlighting its promise for reducing treatment toxicity and improving quality of life for survivors. Listeners will gain insight into the challenges faced by children with cancer and their families, the long-term effects of current treatments, and the critical importance of supporting childhood cancer research. The EVAN Foundation Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation CureFestUSA.org SHOW TRANSCRIPT ---------------------------- QUESTIONS? Email podcast@fusfoundation.org if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances.  Email info@fusfoundation.org if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation.  FUSF SOCIAL MEDIA LinkedIn X Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube FUSF WEBSITE https://www.fusfoundation.org SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER https://www.fusfoundation.org/newsletter-signup/ READ THE LATEST NEWSLETTER https://www.fusfoundation.org/the-foundation/news-media/newsletter/ DOWNLOAD "THE TUMOR" BY JOHN GRISHAM (FREE E-BOOK) https://www.fusfoundation.org/read-the-tumor-by-john-grisham/

In this episode, Dr. Lauren Powlovich shares her journey from anesthesiology to her current role as Associate Director of Research and Education at the Focused Ultrasound Foundation. From her early exposure to healthcare through her family of nurses to her own unique career path in the medical field, Dr. Powlovich reveals her passion for helping others and her excitement about the revolutionary use of focused ultrasound to treat pediatric brain tumors and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.    Throughout the conversation, Dr. Powlovich highlights the importance of collaboration and accessibility in advancing the field of focused ultrasound. She discusses the challenges of making focused ultrasound devices more widely available, particularly in smaller hospitals and remote areas, and the need for more affordable and convenient technology.    As a woman in a male-dominated field, Dr. Powlovich reflects on the challenges of balancing motherhood with a demanding occupation and emphasizes the value of having inspiring female role models and mentors throughout her career.   SHOW TRANSCRIPT ---------------------------- QUESTIONS? Email podcast@fusfoundation.org if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances.  Email info@fusfoundation.org if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation.  FUSF SOCIAL MEDIA LinkedIn X Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube FUSF WEBSITE https://www.fusfoundation.org SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER https://www.fusfoundation.org/newsletter-signup/ READ THE LATEST NEWSLETTER https://www.fusfoundation.org/the-foundation/news-media/newsletter/ DOWNLOAD "THE TUMOR" BY JOHN GRISHAM (FREE E-BOOK) https://www.fusfoundation.org/read-the-tumor-by-john-grisham/

In this episode, Dr. Jill O'Donnell-Tormey, CEO and Director of Scientific Affairs at the Cancer Research Institute (CRI), discusses the fascinating history of cancer immunotherapy, recent breakthroughs, and the potential role of focused ultrasound in enhancing immunotherapy treatments. The conversation explores current challenges and opportunities in cancer immunotherapy, including the need for personalized treatment approaches and the promising potential of combining immunotherapy with other modalities like focused ultrasound. Dr. O'Donnell-Tormey explains key concepts such as checkpoint inhibitors and CAR T-cell therapy, making complex ideas accessible to listeners. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the collaborative efforts between CRI and the Focused Ultrasound Foundation, learning how this partnership is driving innovation in cancer treatment. Dr. O'Donnell-Tormey also reflects on her career achievements and the evolving landscape of cancer research. This episode offers a unique opportunity to learn from a leading expert in the field, providing a deeper understanding of the latest advancements in cancer immunotherapy and the potential for innovative technologies like focused ultrasound to improve treatment outcomes for cancer patients. For more information about CRI visit cancerresearch.org SHOW TRANSCRIPT ---------------------------- QUESTIONS? Email podcast@fusfoundation.org if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances.  Email info@fusfoundation.org if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation.  FUSF SOCIAL MEDIA LinkedIn X Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube FUSF WEBSITE https://www.fusfoundation.org SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER https://www.fusfoundation.org/newsletter-signup/ READ THE LATEST NEWSLETTER https://www.fusfoundation.org/the-foundation/news-media/newsletter/ DOWNLOAD "THE TUMOR" BY JOHN GRISHAM (FREE E-BOOK) https://www.fusfoundation.org/read-the-tumor-by-john-grisham/

Join us for a compelling conversation with Beverly McGowan, a nurse practitioner whose life was dramatically impacted by essential tremor. Beverly takes us through her journey, from the first signs of tremor affecting her work to the debilitating effects on her personal life and hobbies. She describes the challenges of traditional treatments and her discovery of focused ultrasound as a potential solution. Beverly provides a vivid, firsthand account of the focused ultrasound procedure, detailing the process step-by-step and sharing her immediate, transformative results. Learn about her rapid recovery, the short-term side effects, and her triumphant return to both her career and beloved hobbies like photography. Now a dedicated advocate for focused ultrasound technology, Beverly discusses her experiences sharing her story with legislators and offers valuable insights for others considering this treatment. As she steps into her new role as a patient advocate with the Focused Ultrasound Foundation, Beverly's story serves as a beacon of hope for those struggling with essential tremor and showcases the promising future of this groundbreaking medical technology. The patient story shared above is a personal account of an individual’s experience with focused ultrasound treatment. Please be aware that each patient’s situation is unique, and outcomes may vary. The information provided in this story should not be considered as medical advice or a guarantee of specific results. It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to discuss your condition and determine the best treatment options for you. The Focused Ultrasound Foundation does not endorse any specific treatment or medical procedure and encourages all patients to seek professional medical guidance tailored to their individual needs. SHOW TRANSCRIPT ---------------------------- QUESTIONS? Email podcast@fusfoundation.org if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances.  Email info@fusfoundation.org if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation.  FUSF SOCIAL MEDIA LinkedIn X Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube FUSF WEBSITE https://www.fusfoundation.org SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER https://www.fusfoundation.org/newsletter-signup/ READ THE LATEST NEWSLETTER https://www.fusfoundation.org/the-foundation/news-media/newsletter/ DOWNLOAD "THE TUMOR" BY JOHN GRISHAM (FREE E-BOOK) https://www.fusfoundation.org/read-the-tumor-by-john-grisham/

Dr. Clifford Cho, a renowned surgical oncologist from the University of Michigan, joins us to discuss the revolutionary intersection of histotripsy and cancer immunotherapy. Histotripsy, a noninvasive focused ultrasound mechanism, is changing the landscape of cancer treatment by not only destroying tumors but also potentially boosting the body's immune response against cancer. Dr. Cho provides an in-depth look at the successful #HOPE4LIVER clinical trial, which demonstrated histotripsy's safety and efficacy in treating liver tumors. He explains how this technology works without heat or radiation, offering a precision treatment option for patients with limited alternatives. The conversation explores the unexpected benefits of histotripsy, including its ability to alter tumor blood vessel architecture and oxygen levels, potentially making cancers more vulnerable to treatment. The episode also covers the exciting future of focused ultrasound in cancer treatment. Dr. Cho shares his lab's ongoing research, including efforts to make traditionally immunotherapy-resistant cancers, like pancreatic cancer, more responsive to treatment. He discusses the expansion of histotripsy applications to other organs and the development of a new clinical-translational program, promising broader access to this innovative treatment and further advancements in cancer research. SHOW TRANSCRIPT ---------------------------- QUESTIONS? Email podcast@fusfoundation.org if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances.  Email info@fusfoundation.org if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation.  FUSF SOCIAL MEDIA LinkedIn X Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube FUSF WEBSITE https://www.fusfoundation.org SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER https://www.fusfoundation.org/newsletter-signup/ READ THE LATEST NEWSLETTER https://www.fusfoundation.org/the-foundation/news-media/newsletter/ DOWNLOAD "THE TUMOR" BY JOHN GRISHAM (FREE E-BOOK) https://www.fusfoundation.org/read-the-tumor-by-john-grisham/