A new tool to control brain activity using light
Novel optogenetic tool for noninvasive neuronal inhibition
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING · NIH-10694812
This study is exploring a new way to help people with neurological and psychiatric disorders by using special light to activate an enzyme that can calm down overactive brain activity, all without needing any surgery.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LARAMIE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10694812 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a light-activated enzyme that can inhibit neuronal activity noninvasively. By using near-infrared light, the engineered enzyme will produce GABA, a neurotransmitter that helps reduce excessive brain activity. The goal is to create a method that can be applied to treat various neurological and psychiatric disorders by controlling brain function without invasive procedures. The project involves designing and testing prototypes to ensure they work effectively in specific brain regions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals suffering from neurological or psychiatric disorders characterized by hyperactivity in the brain.
Not a fit: Patients with stable neurological conditions or those not experiencing hyperactive brain activity may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for conditions like epilepsy, schizophrenia, anxiety, and autism spectrum disorder.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using light to control neuronal activity is established, this specific application of a novel optogenetic tool is relatively new and untested.
Where this research is happening
LARAMIE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING — LARAMIE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GOMELSKY, MARK — UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING
- Study coordinator: GOMELSKY, MARK
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 below.