Creating a new tool to measure NPY levels in the brain
Official title: Development of a novel NPY-sensitive microelectrode to detect endogenous NPY release
Funded at University of Puerto Rico Rio Piedras · NIH-11027487 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a tiny device that can keep track of a brain chemical called Neuropeptide Y, which might help us understand its role in different brain disorders, making it easier to learn how it affects brain health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Puerto Rico Rio Piedras NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Juan, United States) |
| Project start | December 17, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $659,217 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH138583-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11027487 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological disorders that may be influenced by NPY levels.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without neurological disorders or those not affected by NPY-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a specialized microelectrode that can continuously measure levels of Neuropeptide Y (NPY) in the brain. By using a tiny, aptamer-modified platinum microelectrode, researchers aim to monitor NPY release in brain slices and individual cells, which could help establish links between NPY levels and various neurological disorders. The approach involves advanced techniques to enhance the sensitivity and selectivity of NPY detection, allowing for rapid data collection and analysis. This innovative tool could provide valuable insights into the biological role of NPY and its impact on brain function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for neurological disorders linked to NPY levels.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using microelectrodes for measuring neuropeptides is established, the specific application of NPY-sensitive microelectrodes is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Puerto Rico Rio Piedras
San Juan, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cunci, Lisandro — University of Puerto Rico Rio Piedras
- Study coordinator: Cunci, Lisandro
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.