Creating a platform to study human brain development in the lab
Official title: Platform to accurately recapitulate and perturb cortical development and morphogenesis in vitro
Funded at Harvard University · NIH-11048122 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working to create brain-like tissues in the lab to better understand how our brains develop, which could help researchers learn more about brain-related conditions and improve treatments for people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | November 15, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $679,072 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH136014-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11048122 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic conditions affecting brain development, particularly those with anencephaly or related disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fully developed brains and no genetic predispositions to developmental disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to recreate key features of the developing human forebrain using advanced techniques in stem cell and developmental biology. By developing a platform that allows for high-throughput genetic modifications, the researchers hope to uncover the mechanisms that drive human brain development. The project utilizes bioengineering methods to create brain-like tissues in the lab, enabling the study of how different genetic factors influence brain formation and function. This approach addresses the limitations of traditional animal models and ethical concerns surrounding direct human studies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of brain development disorders and potential new treatments for conditions like anencephaly.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using bioengineering techniques to model brain development, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard University
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ramanathan, Sharad — Harvard University
- Study coordinator: Ramanathan, Sharad
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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.