Creating transparent skulls for brain imaging and electrical recordings

3D Printed Multifunctional Brain Windows for Simultaneous Optical Imaging and Electrophysiology

NIH-funded research Applied Universal Dynamics Corporation · NIH-10632060

This study is working on creating special see-through skulls for mice that let scientists watch and record brain activity at the same time, helping them learn more about how the brain works during different behaviors and thoughts.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionApplied Universal Dynamics Corporation NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Loretto, United States)
Project IDNIH-10632060 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing innovative 3D printed transparent skulls that enable simultaneous optical imaging and electrical recordings of brain activity in mice. By utilizing advanced printing techniques, the project aims to create devices that allow researchers to observe and measure the activity of millions of neurons in real-time, providing insights into how brain circuits function during various behaviors and cognitive processes. The approach combines both optical and electrophysiological methods to achieve high-resolution data collection from the entire cortex of the brain. This technology could significantly enhance our understanding of brain function and its relation to behavior and cognition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research are individuals with neurological disorders or cognitive impairments who may benefit from advanced brain imaging techniques.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to brain function or those who do not have access to the research facilities may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding brain functions and disorders, potentially improving treatments for neurological conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for brain studies, indicating that this approach could be a significant advancement in the field.

Where this research is happening

Loretto, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.