A new microscope that can quickly record and stimulate brain activity.
Official title: An Autonomous Rapidly Adaptive Multiphoton Microscope for Neural Recording and Stimulation
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10739050 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a special microscope that helps scientists see and understand how brain cells communicate with each other, which could lead to better treatments for neurological conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $2,008,605 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1NS133976-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10739050 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with neurological conditions or those interested in brain function studies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to brain function or those not residing near the research location may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing an advanced multiphoton microscope that utilizes genetically encoded calcium indicators to observe and stimulate neurons in the brain. By improving the speed and efficiency of neuronal recordings, the microscope aims to capture fine details of neuronal activity across multiple circuits simultaneously. The innovative approach combines optimized scanning techniques with advanced fluorescence methods to enhance the temporal resolution of brain activity mapping. Patients may benefit from insights gained into brain function and potential new treatments for neurological conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding brain function and developing new therapies for neurological disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results with advanced imaging techniques, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Foster, Mark a — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Foster, Mark a
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Targeting hidden brain injuries in iTTP to improve long-term brain health
A researcher aims to find out how silent brain injuries in people with immune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (iTTP) happen, how they affect thinking and stroke risk, and how to prevent them.
-
Accelerated flap coverage for severe leg injuries: earlier reconstruction vs standard timing
This study tests whether doing early flap coverage after a severe leg injury lowers infection risk and improves healing for patients with open wounds and bone injury.
-
Placebo-controlled shunting for iNPH: does the surgery help with walking and balance?
A doctor-led trial at Johns Hopkins will test whether a shunt surgery improves walking and balance in older adults with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus.
-
Omalizumab for COPD patients with allergen sensitization and exposure
A multicenter trial will test whether adding omalizumab helps people with COPD who are allergic to common indoor allergens and are exposed to them.
-
Johns Hopkins Total Worker Health Center focusing on mental health
A nationwide center at Johns Hopkins is working to improve mental health and well-being among workers by studying workplace health strategies and translating findings into practical tools.
-
Role of fat droplets in liver fat and inflammatory signals in NAFLD
A study at Johns Hopkins will explore how fat droplets in the liver influence molecules that drive inflammation and progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in adults.
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.