Better deep-brain imaging to see Alzheimer’s changes
Computational two-photon microscopy for deep tissue imaging
This project builds faster microscopes and smart software to see deeper into brain tissue so researchers can study Alzheimer's more clearly.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11146740 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are designing new two-photon microscopes and computer algorithms that steer light into the clearest pathways through living tissue to overcome scattering. The team will combine high-speed light modulators (hardware) with computational scattering-correction software to focus light deeper than current ~1 mm limits. Work will be done in living tissue models and lab settings to refine the methods before any human application. The goal is clearer, cellular-resolution images from deep inside brain tissue so scientists can track Alzheimer's-related changes that were previously hidden.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants for future phases would be people with Alzheimer's or volunteers willing to donate tissue or take part in imaging studies as the technology moves toward human use.
Not a fit: People with very advanced disease or those seeking an immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to benefit directly, since this is early-stage technology development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could let scientists observe Alzheimer’s-related changes deep in the brain with much greater detail, speeding discovery of diagnostics and treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Related methods like adaptive optics and wavefront shaping have improved imaging depth in animal studies, but consistently achieving high-speed, cellular-resolution imaging beyond ~1 mm remains largely experimental.
Where this research is happening
Davis, United States
- University of California at Davis — Davis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xue, Yi — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Xue, Yi
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.