Electron Microscopy Core supporting mapping of neural circuits in zebrafish
Official title: EM Core
Funded at Harvard University · NIH-11404098 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A dedicated core uses advanced electron microscopy to map the connections in a zebrafish brain, helping scientists understand how neural circuits drive behavior.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | September 25, 2017 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $422,640 |
| NIH project number | 5U19NS104653-10 |
| Project ID | NIH-11404098 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Not applicable to patients directly; the core supports research that may ultimately benefit patients through advances in neuroscience.
✕Less likely to help
No direct patient involvement in this core; it is a research infrastructure project.
What this research studies
This core focuses on creating a detailed map of neural connections in zebrafish by generating high-resolution, nanoscale images of brain tissue. It uses automated serial section electron microscopy to trace synapses and identify presynaptic and postsynaptic partners, aiming to link brain structure with behavior. The work supports multiple researchers at Harvard by providing the necessary infrastructure and expertise to produce comprehensive circuit maps that can inform future studies and discoveries.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the core could accelerate understanding of how brain circuits control behavior and inform approaches to neurological disorders.
How similar studies have gone: The project builds on a decade of development in serial-section EM and whole-brain connectomics in model systems, with growing feasibility of whole-vertebrate mapping.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard University
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lichtman, Jeff W — Harvard University
- Study coordinator: Lichtman, Jeff W
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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.