Creating tools to target specific brain cell types using viruses.
Official title: Enhancer AAV toolbox for cell classes and subclasses in the brains of mouse, macaque and marmoset.
Funded at Allen Institute · NIH-11118024 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is all about creating special tools to help scientists target and understand different types of brain cells in mice and monkeys, which could lead to better treatments for brain-related conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Allen Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $3,007,397 |
| NIH project number | 1U01MH139778-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11118024 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals with brain disorders that affect specific cell types, particularly those related to basal ganglia diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with generalized brain conditions not linked to specific cell types or those who do not have access to the research facilities may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a variety of recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV) tools designed to target specific classes and subclasses of brain cells in mice, marmosets, and macaques. By utilizing advanced techniques such as single-nucleus multiome datasets and various imaging and transcriptomic methods, the researchers aim to identify and characterize enhancers that can effectively drive gene expression in these targeted cells. The project will involve extensive screening and testing of these tools to ensure their effectiveness and specificity in different brain regions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more precise methods for studying and potentially treating brain disorders by targeting specific cell types.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using AAV tools for targeted gene delivery in the brain, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Allen Institute
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tasic, Bosiljka — Allen Institute
- Study coordinator: Tasic, Bosiljka
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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.