NIH-funded research R21 grant

Developing tools to analyze gene expression in complex tissues

Official title: Computational toolbox for spatial transcriptomic analysis of complex tissues

Funded at Columbia Univ New York Morningside · NIH-10666294 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is working on new computer methods to better understand how different cells in our tissues communicate and work together, which could lead to better ways to diagnose and treat diseases for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia Univ New York Morningside
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project startSeptember 21, 2023
Project endAugust 31, 2025
Funding year2023
Award (this year)$435,475
NIH project number1R21HG012639-01A1
Project IDNIH-10666294 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with brain diseases or disorders who may benefit from advancements in diagnostic and treatment methodologies.

Less likely to help

Patients with conditions unrelated to brain diseases or those not requiring spatial transcriptomic analysis may not receive benefits from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating advanced computational methods to analyze spatial transcriptomic data, which maps the organization and communication of cells within tissues. By utilizing machine learning techniques, the project aims to overcome current limitations in analyzing complex tissue samples that contain diverse cell types. The goal is to enhance our understanding of how cells interact and function in their natural environments, which is crucial for studying development and disease. Patients may benefit from improved diagnostic tools and treatment strategies derived from these insights.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools and targeted therapies for brain diseases and disorders.

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using computational methods for analyzing genomic data, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

  • Columbia Univ New York Morningside
    New York, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Azizi, Elham — Columbia Univ New York Morningside
  • Study coordinator: Azizi, Elham

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.