Developing targeted tools for studying specific brain cell types
Official title: UC Irvine Center for the production and distribution of cell-type-specific viral targeting reagents
Funded at University of California-Irvine · NIH-11082340 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on special tools that can help scientists learn more about how different brain cells work, which could lead to better treatments for people with neurological conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $945,779 |
| NIH project number | 5U24MH133236-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11082340 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with neurological conditions that affect brain circuitry, such as epilepsy or autism.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to brain circuitry or those who do not have access to the research facilities may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating and distributing specialized viral tools that can selectively target specific types of brain cells in various species, including rodents and non-human primates. By utilizing advanced gene regulatory elements and adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors, the project aims to enhance our understanding of brain circuitry and function. The collaboration between the University of California, Irvine and Harvard University will facilitate the production of these tools, which are essential for studying both excitatory and inhibitory neurons in the cerebral cortex. Patients may benefit from insights gained through this research, which could lead to improved treatments for neurological conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding and treating neurological disorders by providing targeted therapies based on specific brain cell types.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research utilizing similar gene regulatory approaches has shown promise in enhancing our understanding of brain function and developing targeted therapies.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California-Irvine
Irvine, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xu, Xiangmin — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Xu, Xiangmin
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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.