Developing a new optical interface to control nerve activity
Optimization of a Minimally-Invasive Bidirectional Optogenetic Peripheral Nerve Interface with Single Axon Read-in & Read-out Specificity
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER · NIH-10986053
This study is testing a new, gentle device that uses light to interact with nerves in the body, which could help find better treatments for conditions like epilepsy and metabolic disorders, and it's currently being developed using specially modified mice before it can be used in people.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10986053 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating a minimally-invasive device that can optically stimulate and monitor individual nerve fibers in the peripheral nervous system. By using advanced techniques like optogenetics, the researchers aim to modulate nerve activity non-invasively, which could lead to new treatments for conditions affecting the thoracic and abdominal organs, such as epilepsy and metabolic disorders. The approach involves using genetically modified mice to refine the technology before it can be applied to human patients. This innovative method seeks to improve communication with nerves by converting electrical signals into optical signals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals suffering from conditions like epilepsy or metabolic disorders that affect the thoracic and abdominal organs.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to the peripheral nervous system or those who do not have access to the required technology may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new, non-invasive treatment options for patients with neurological and metabolic disorders.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach is innovative, similar optogenetic techniques have shown promise in animal models, indicating potential for success in human applications.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER — Aurora, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WEIR, RICHARD FERGUS FFRENCH — UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER
- Study coordinator: WEIR, RICHARD FERGUS FFRENCH
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.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease