Exploring detailed brain connectivity using advanced MRI techniques
Official title: Unlocking whole brain, layer-specific functional connectivity with 3D VAPER fMRI
Funded at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign · NIH-10814251 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different layers of the brain work together using advanced imaging technology, and it's for both healthy people and those with neurological conditions to help us learn more about brain function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Champaign, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $79,300 |
| NIH project number | 5R03EB034324-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10814251 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include individuals with neurological conditions or healthy volunteers interested in contributing to brain research.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with contraindications for MRI, such as those with certain implants or severe claustrophobia, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on using ultra-high field fMRI technology to investigate the functional connectivity of different layers within the human brain. By achieving high-resolution imaging, the study aims to enhance our understanding of brain micro-circuitry in both healthy individuals and those with neurological conditions. The approach involves developing a new imaging sequence that provides accurate and sensitive measurements of brain activity across the entire brain, overcoming previous limitations in spatial coverage and specificity. Patients may undergo non-invasive imaging to help researchers gather data on brain function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and treatment strategies for various neurological disorders.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach is innovative, similar studies using advanced imaging techniques have shown promise in enhancing our understanding of brain function.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chai, Yuhui — University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Study coordinator: Chai, Yuhui
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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.