Exploring brain connections using advanced electron microscopy techniques
Official title: BRAIN CONNECTS: Multi-Beam Transmission Electron Microscopy of Iteratively Milled Semi-Thick Tissue Sections
Funded at Paul Scherrer Institut Psi · NIH-10915485 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring new ways to take super-detailed pictures of brain connections, which could help us understand how the brain works and lead to better treatments for neurological conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Paul Scherrer Institut Psi NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Villigen Psi, Switzerland) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $409,085 |
| NIH project number | 5U01NS132317-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10915485 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological conditions or those interested in the biological mechanisms of brain function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to brain structure or function may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates innovative methods in electron microscopy to create detailed maps of neuronal connections in the brain. By utilizing multi-beam scanning and automated transmission electron microscopy, the project aims to overcome challenges related to sample preparation and imaging artifacts. Patients may benefit from insights gained about brain structure and function, which could inform future treatments for neurological conditions. The research involves cutting ultrathin tissue sections and imaging them to achieve high-resolution reconstructions of neuronal wiring.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of brain connectivity, potentially leading to improved treatments for neurological disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using similar electron microscopy techniques has shown promise in mapping neuronal connections, indicating a potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
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Paul Scherrer Institut Psi
Villigen Psi, Switzerland Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wanner, Adrian Andreas — Paul Scherrer Institut Psi
- Study coordinator: Wanner, Adrian Andreas
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.