Developing a new optical nerve interface to treat diseases affecting the abdomen and thorax.
Optimization of a Minimally-Invasive Bidirectional Optogenetic Peripheral Nerve Interface with Single Axon Read-in & Read-out Specificity
This study is exploring a new way to use light to gently control nerve activity in people with conditions like epilepsy and metabolic disorders, which could lead to better treatment options for those with related health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10918112 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating a minimally-invasive optical interface that can modulate individual nerve axons in the peripheral nervous system. By using advanced optogenetic techniques, the researchers aim to non-invasively influence nerve activity related to conditions such as epilepsy and metabolic disorders. The approach involves genetically modifying neurons to express light-sensitive proteins, allowing for precise control of nerve signals using light. This innovative technology could lead to new treatment options for patients with various abdominal and thoracic organ-related diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals with 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 suffering from conditions like epilepsy and metabolic disorders.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of optogenetics in nerve modulation is a growing field, this specific approach is novel and has not been extensively tested 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.