A platform to study human brain connectivity using organoids
Official title: A multi-organoid-on-a-chip platform for interrogating human brain (dys)connectivity
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-11051877 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different parts of the brain work together by using tiny brain-like structures to mimic the visual system, and it aims to help people with psychiatric disorders by providing new insights into how their brains connect and function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $812,221 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH136351-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11051877 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or bipolar disorder, as these conditions are linked to brain connectivity issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neuropsychiatric conditions or those who do not have any brain connectivity disorders may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how different parts of the human brain connect and communicate by using a novel multi-organoid-on-chip platform. By creating organoids that mimic the human visual system, the study aims to explore the connectivity and functionality of brain structures in a controlled environment. Patients with psychiatric disorders may benefit from insights gained through this high-throughput experimental system, which allows for detailed analysis of brain connectivity and activity. The approach combines advanced tissue engineering with innovative organoid analysis techniques to better understand brain disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients with neuropsychiatric disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using organoid models to study brain connectivity, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Quadrato, Giorgia — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Quadrato, Giorgia
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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.