Creating 3D brain circuits on a chip to study brain development and connectivity
Official title: Developing 3D brain circuits on-a-chip for in vitro study of human cortico-striatal circuitry development and connectivity
Funded at Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr · NIH-10878893 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is creating a special 3D chip that acts like human brain circuits to help researchers learn more about how certain brain connections develop, which could lead to a better understanding of conditions like schizophrenia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $195,933 |
| NIH project number | 5R21MH132038-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10878893 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly those with conditions like schizophrenia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute neurological injuries or conditions unrelated to neurodevelopmental disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel platform that mimics human brain circuits using 3D technology. By creating a microfluidic chip that integrates human stem cell-derived neurons, researchers aim to study the development and connectivity of cortico-striatal circuits, which are crucial for higher-order behaviors and cognition. This approach allows for real-time monitoring of brain circuit dynamics, providing insights into how these circuits function and develop over time. The goal is to better understand the underlying mechanisms of neurodevelopmental disorders like schizophrenia.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for neurodevelopmental disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using similar microphysiological platforms to study brain function, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
Cincinnati, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guo, Ziyuan — Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Guo, Ziyuan
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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.