Creating tools to study brain circuits in primates
A Massive Library of AAVs to Target Transcriptionally-Defined Primate Cell Types
This study is looking at different kinds of brain cells in monkeys to help us learn more about how our brains work and to find better treatments for brain-related conditions, using special tools to deliver helpful genes right where they're needed.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10886146 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on identifying different types of neurons in nonhuman primates and developing a wide range of vectors to study brain circuits. By leveraging the similarities between primate and human brains, the project aims to enhance our understanding of cognition and improve therapies for neurological and psychiatric disorders. The methodology involves using adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) to deliver genetic material specifically to targeted neuron types, which can help in analyzing and manipulating brain circuits. This approach is crucial for advancing gene therapy techniques that can be applied to human diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals with neurological or psychiatric conditions that could be targeted by new therapies developed from this work.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to neurological or psychiatric disorders may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for neurological and psychiatric disorders by enhancing our understanding of brain function.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research using AAVs for gene therapy has shown promising results, indicating that this approach has potential for success in similar applications.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stauffer, William Richard — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Stauffer, William Richard
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.