UK's ARIA Agency Launches £69M Brain Circuit Modulation Program
Original: The UK’s Answer to Darpa Wants to Rewire the Human Brain
Why This Matters
Represents major UK investment in precision neurotechnology for treating costly brain disorders
The UK's Advanced Research and Innovation Agency unveiled a £69 million initiative to develop precise neurotechnologies targeting brain circuits. The program funds 19 teams working on treatments for epilepsy, Alzheimer's, and other neurological disorders through ultrasound and deep brain stimulation methods.
ARIA, established in 2023 with over £1 billion funding through 2030, aims to address neurological conditions costing the UK economy tens of billions annually. Program director Jacques Carolan explained current interventions lack precision needed for brain circuits that are overconnected or underconnected. The 19 funded teams explore ultrasound for brain biotyping and novel deep brain stimulation methods. Imperial College London combines ultrasound and gene therapy to image real-time neuron gene expression. The approach builds on 25 years of electrode implantation in the basal ganglia for Parkinson's treatment, with potential applications for depression, addiction, and epilepsy.