A new microscope for high-speed imaging of brain activity
Official title: Three-dimensional random access acousto-optical scanning two-photon microscope
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11119271 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is all about using a special microscope to see how brain cells work in real-time, which could help us understand and treat brain disorders better, so it’s great news for anyone affected by these conditions!
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2025 |
| Project end | May 14, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,386,474 |
| NIH project number | 1S10OD038398-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11119271 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with neurological disorders or those interested in brain health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to brain function or those not residing in the research location may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on acquiring a state-of-the-art Femtonics Atlas microscope at Baylor College of Medicine, which will enhance the ability to visualize brain activity in real-time. The microscope utilizes advanced two-photon excitation and acousto-optical deflectors to capture high-resolution images of neuronal activity both in laboratory settings and living organisms. By enabling rapid imaging of calcium and voltage changes in neurons, this technology aims to provide deeper insights into the functioning of brain cells, particularly astrocytes and dendrites. Patients may benefit from the findings as they could lead to improved understanding and treatment of neurological disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding brain function and developing new treatments for neurological diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using advanced imaging techniques has shown significant success in enhancing our understanding of neuronal activity, indicating that this approach has the potential for impactful results.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Reimer, Jacob — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Reimer, Jacob
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.