Developing nanoparticles to sense and stimulate neurotransmitters in the brain
Building a two-way communication system: Bio-orthogonal superhydrophobic nanoparticles for controlled stimulation and real-time sensing of neurotransmitters
This study is exploring new tiny sensors that can detect and release important brain chemicals, helping us learn more about how the brain communicates and how conditions like Alzheimer's disease affect that communication.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10473375 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating advanced nanoparticles that can both sense neurotransmitters like acetylcholine and stimulate their release in response to light. By using these bio-orthogonal nanosensors, researchers aim to monitor chemical signaling in the brain, which is crucial for understanding neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. The project involves both in-vitro and in-vivo imaging techniques to study how these neurotransmitters function in neuronal communication. This innovative approach could lead to significant insights into the mechanisms of brain health and disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related neurodegenerative conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with neurological disorders unrelated to neurotransmitter signaling may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new methods for diagnosing and treating Alzheimer's disease and other neurological disorders.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of nanoparticles for sensing neurotransmitters is a novel approach, similar technologies have shown promise in other areas of neurological research.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, UNITED STATES
- University of Southern California — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mousavi, Maral — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Mousavi, Maral
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.