Exploring gene activity in human and mouse brains using advanced imaging techniques
Official title: Multi-modal spatial genomics in the mouse and human brains
Funded at Spatial Genomics, INC. · NIH-10867435 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring new ways to see and understand how genes are arranged in the brains of humans and mice, which could help us learn more about how brain cells work together and communicate, ultimately helping us uncover the mysteries of brain function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Spatial Genomics, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pasadena, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | June 15, 2023 |
| Project end | September 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,337,968 |
| NIH project number | 5R44MH133530-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10867435 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 genetic basis of brain function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to brain function or those not willing to participate in research may not benefit from this study.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative tools to visualize and analyze the spatial organization of genes in human and mouse brain samples. By utilizing a technology called sequential fluorescence in situ hybridization (seqFISH), the project aims to image thousands of genes simultaneously, providing insights into the cellular structure and interactions within the brain. This approach could help identify new cell types and understand how neurons communicate with each other and with glial cells, which is crucial for unraveling the complexities of brain function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding brain disorders and developing targeted therapies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using similar spatial genomics techniques has shown promising results in understanding brain structure and function.
Where this research is happening
-
Spatial Genomics, INC.
Pasadena, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Frieda, Kirsten — Spatial Genomics, INC.
- Study coordinator: Frieda, Kirsten
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Next-generation brain spatial genomics tools
A new NIH-supported project aims to improve brain tissue mapping by making spatial gene expression assays more powerful and reliable in human brain samples.
-
New tools to visualize gene activity in the human brain
This study is working on improving a special technology that helps scientists see how genes are expressed in brain tissues, which is important for understanding brain disorders, and it's designed for researchers who want to learn more about these conditions.
-
Analyzing gene expression in the brains of Alzheimer's patients
This study is looking at the brains of people with Alzheimer's to better understand how their cells work and interact, using special technology to see thousands of genes at once, which could help us find new ways to understand and treat the disease.
-
Mapping the spatial organization of tumor cells in breast cancer samples
This study is looking at how different cells in breast cancer tumors work together and where they are located, using special imaging tools to help improve how we diagnose and treat the disease.
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.