Developing advanced sensors to visualize electrical signals in the brain

Chemigenetic voltage indicators for far-red and two-photon imaging in vivo

NIH-funded research Brown University · NIH-10731843

This study is working on new sensors that can help us see and understand the electrical signals in the brain better, which could lead to important discoveries about how the brain works and help us learn more about brain disorders.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBrown University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Providence, United States)
Project IDNIH-10731843 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating new types of sensors that can detect and visualize electrical signals in the brain, which are crucial for understanding how the nervous system functions. By developing brighter and more effective voltage indicators that can be used with advanced imaging techniques, the research aims to improve our ability to study brain activity in real-time. The sensors will be based on a novel mechanism that combines genetically encoded proteins with synthetic dyes, allowing for more precise measurements of brain signals. This innovative approach could lead to significant advancements in neuroscience and our understanding of brain disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological conditions or those interested in the underlying mechanisms of brain activity.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to brain function or those not involved in neurological research may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of brain function and lead to better treatments for neurological disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in developing similar imaging techniques, indicating that this approach could lead to meaningful advancements in the field.

Where this research is happening

Providence, 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 2026-06-15 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.