Fraunhofer Institute for Digital Medicine MEVISInstitute News
Since earlier this year, research scientists of Fraunhofer MEVIS are engaged in the four-year project AEGEUS (A Novel EEG Ultrasound Device for Functional Brain Imaging and Neurostimulation) alongside with several other European partners. The goal of AEGEUS is to develop and manufacture a radically new prototype headset that combines transcranial ultrasound imaging with electroencephalography. This is anticipated to transform the treatment of neurological diseases like epilepsy and stimulate new lines of research in cognitive neuroscience. It would also mean improved diagnosis through accurate imaging, with added potential for targeted neurostimulation and neuromodulation, in a non-invasive manner.
In terms of socio-economic impact, the novel headset would improve time-to-diagnosis by timely examination and could become a cost-effective and widely available option for rural and developing societies, on which neurologists could ground their initial decisions. This year’s World Brain Day on July 22 highlights the importance of accessible health care for individuals with brain disorders, regardless of age group, ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic status.
The AEGEUS project is funded by the EU with around 3 million euros (grant agreement no. 101099210) and lasts until February 2027. The consortium is led by the Fraunhofer Institute for Digital Medicine MEVIS and the Fraunhofer Institute for Biomedical Engineering IBMT and involves several partners from academic institutions and industry (Università di Roma La Sapienza, Università degli Studi di Roma Tor Vergata, University of Akureyri, University Clinic of Salzburg, G.TEC Medical Engineering GmbH and AKA Biotech srl).