Developing new tools to visualize and manipulate brain fluid movement

Viral Tool Development Core: Visualization and manipulation of brain fluid dynamics by recombinant viral vectors

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER · NIH-10898603

This study is exploring new ways to see how fluid moves in the brain while we sleep, using special tools that won't disturb the natural flow, which could help us learn more about brain health and diseases.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10898603 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating innovative, minimally-invasive viral vectors to study how cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flows in the brain, particularly during sleep. By using genetically encoded biosensors and opto-/pharmacogenetic techniques, the project aims to improve our understanding of brain fluid dynamics without disrupting normal flow patterns. The research will involve engineering viral tools that can label different fluid compartments in the brain, allowing for real-time imaging and monitoring of blood and CSF conditions. This could lead to significant advancements in how we study brain health and disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological conditions that may affect cerebrospinal fluid dynamics or those interested in brain health.

Not a fit: Patients with stable neurological conditions that do not impact cerebrospinal fluid flow may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools and treatments for neurological conditions by enhancing our understanding of brain fluid dynamics.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using viral vectors for brain imaging, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

ROCHESTER, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.