Developing a system to monitor and control anesthesia delivery using brain activity

Non-Human Primate Model for Developing Closed-Loop Anesthesia Delivery Systems

NIH-funded research Massachusetts Institute of Technology · NIH-11140325

This study is testing a new system that automatically adjusts anesthesia based on brain activity, making it safer for patients, especially older adults or those who are very ill, by helping to prevent brain problems after surgery.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts Institute of Technology NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cambridge, United States)
Project IDNIH-11140325 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating a closed-loop anesthesia delivery system that continuously monitors brain function during anesthesia using advanced technology. By analyzing real-time electroencephalogram (EEG) data, the system aims to adjust anesthetic levels automatically, ensuring patients maintain the appropriate level of unconsciousness. This approach is particularly important for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly or critically ill patients, who are at higher risk for brain dysfunction after anesthesia. The study utilizes non-human primates to test the effectiveness and safety of this innovative anesthesia management system.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include elderly patients and those requiring prolonged anesthesia, such as critically ill individuals.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing anesthesia or those with conditions that preclude the use of general anesthesia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of brain dysfunction in patients undergoing anesthesia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using EEG monitoring for anesthesia management, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in patient care.

Where this research is happening

Cambridge, 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.