Faculty Spotlight: Aarushi Bhargava

Assistant Professor Aarushi Bhargava joined the department in the fall of 2024. Read on to learn more about her research.

What is your research focus?
My research explores the application of sound waves as a therapeutic tool. While ultrasound is primarily recognized for its imaging capabilities, I investigate the use of focused sound waves at higher intensities to target specific areas within the body. This approach enables us to stimulate cells or precisely eliminate unwanted tissues, such as cancerous growths or blood clots, without damaging the surrounding healthy tissue.

What are you currently researching?
I am investigating the intriguing interactions between sound waves and soft biological materials. A central focus of my research is understanding how ultrasound-generated bubbles can remodel fibrotic environments composed of fibrin and collagen—proteins that play critical roles in impeding drug penetration and promoting disease progression in conditions such as cancer and thrombosis. By strategically manipulating these fibrous networks with sound waves, our goal is to enhance therapeutic delivery and improve clinical outcomes.

Additionally, I am exploring a cutting-edge technique known as histotripsy, which harnesses high-intensity ultrasound waves to generate bubbles that collapse with extraordinary force, enabling precise, non-invasive destruction of targeted tissues. In parallel, my lab is developing ultrasound-responsive, physically intelligent microscale devices fabricated from synthetic materials. These devices are designed to carry out functions such as drug delivery with high temporal and spatial precision within the body. Together, these approaches offer promising avenues for enhancing therapeutic efficacy and advancing personalized medicine.

What impact will your research have on the scientific community?
Ultimately, we aim to foster collaboration across disciplines, driving advancements in both engineering and healthcare. My research is set to make a significant contribution to the scientific community by deepening our understanding of how acoustic waves and cavitation bubbles interact with soft materials. This knowledge is vital for designing and optimizing ultrasound-based treatment strategies. Through a combination of benchtop experiments and in vivo studies, we aim to understand the mechanics of these interactions by effectively bridging concepts from engineering and medicine. Such insights can not only enhance fundamental scientific knowledge but also have the potential to revolutionize treatment methodologies, leading to more effective and less invasive medical interventions.

What impact will your research have on the people of Wisconsin?
My research holds the potential to greatly benefit the people of Wisconsin by utilizing ultrasound as a therapeutic tool for treating various cancers. Ultrasound is now emerging as a promising non-invasive treatment option that could result in fewer or no side effects compared to conventional therapies. Several studies have shown promising results with ultrasound for treating liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, stroke, and neurostimulation, among others. To accelerate the development of these innovative therapies, we are establishing a robust foundation through thorough benchtop and preclinical studies. Our close collaboration with the Wisconsin Institute of Medical Research is instrumental in this process, enabling us to rapidly translate our findings into practical applications. By bringing advanced ultrasound technologies directly to healthcare providers in Wisconsin, we aim to improve treatment outcomes and enhance the quality of life for patients throughout the state. This research not only seeks to advance medical care but also aims to foster a healthier community by providing effective, non-invasive alternatives to traditional treatments.

Hobbies or a fun fact
I love to go hiking and bouldering in my spare time. I’m a big foodie and love exploring different cuisines. I also enjoy opera and improv comedy.