Ultrasound waves

Ultrasound waves are high-frequency sound waves above the audible range of humans, widely used in medical imaging (diagnostic ultrasound) and for some therapeutic applications. They are not a molecule, receptor, or biological target, but rather a form of physical energy that interacts with biological tissues primarily through thermal (heating) and mechanical (cavitation, streaming) effects[1][3][5][6][7]. Therapeutically, focused ultrasound can be used for controlled tissue destruction (e.g., ablation of tumors), enhancing drug delivery (e.g., by increasing vascular permeability or disrupting the blood-brain barrier), neuromodulation, and other biophysical effects[1][2][4]. Despite their wide diagnostic and therapeutic usage, ultrasound waves themselves are not considered therapy "targets" as defined in molecular biology, pharmacology, or biochemistry, but can induce biological responses by modulating tissue environments or supporting the delivery and action of drugs. Note: "Ultrasound waves" is not a molecular/biological target such as a receptor, enzyme, transporter, or gene. It is a physical modality applied in medicine, but does not fit the scope of a canonical "target" for drug or therapeutic interaction.

Other names

UltrasoundUltrasound wavesUltrasonic waves

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