Developing new tools to measure electrical signals in brain cells using advanced imaging techniques
Official title: Red-shifted voltage indicators for two-photon all-optical physiology and multi-spectral imaging
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11075901 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on new tools to help scientists see how brain cells talk to each other in real-time, especially in awake animals, which could lead to better understanding of brain function and help with brain-related conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | April 17, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $530,602 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS136027-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11075901 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological disorders or conditions that affect brain function, as well as healthy volunteers for comparative studies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to neuronal activity or those who are not suitable for imaging studies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating innovative genetically encoded voltage indicators (GEVIs) that can effectively measure electrical signals in neurons during two-photon microscopy. By enhancing the ability to visualize these signals in real-time, the study aims to improve our understanding of how brain cells communicate and process information, particularly in awake and behaving animals. The approach involves developing red-shifted GEVIs that can work alongside existing imaging tools, allowing for deeper insights into neuronal activity and its implications for neurological disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for neurological disorders by providing clearer insights into brain function.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using genetically encoded indicators for monitoring neuronal activity, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements in neuroscience.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: St-Pierre, Francois — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: St-Pierre, Francois
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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.