Developing new methods to measure brain cell connections
High-throughput methods for measuring cortical synaptic connectivity at single-cell resolution
This study is looking at how brain cells talk to each other, which is really important for understanding mental health issues like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, and it aims to develop better ways to see these connections so we can learn more about what’s happening in the brain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Broad Institute, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10473009 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how brain cells connect and communicate, which is crucial for processing information. It aims to create faster and more efficient techniques to measure these connections at a single-cell level, which could help identify changes linked to mental health disorders like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. The researchers will use advanced methods involving viral tracing, optogenetics, and molecular barcoding to explore these connections in detail. By improving the measurement of synaptic connectivity, the study hopes to shed light on the underlying mechanisms of psychiatric diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.
Not a fit: Patients with other unrelated mental health conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for mental health disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using advanced techniques to study brain connectivity, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Cambridge, United States
- Broad Institute, INC. — Cambridge, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Granger, Adam — Broad Institute, INC.
- Study coordinator: Granger, Adam
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.