High-speed 3D brain imaging in moving mice using implantable technology
Official title: Implantable 3D fluorescence imaging with high-speed, addressable laser scanning in moving mice
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10614795 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a tiny, implantable microscope that can take fast, 3D pictures of brain activity in moving mice, which could help scientists learn more about how the brain works and lead to better treatments for neurological conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $1,696,857 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1NS131063-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10614795 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with neurological conditions or those interested in advancements in brain imaging technologies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to neurological function or those not involved in experimental animal research may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a miniature, implantable microscope that can perform high-speed, three-dimensional fluorescence imaging of the brain in moving mice. By utilizing advanced scanning mirrors and ultrafast lasers, the project seeks to capture detailed images of neural activity in real-time, allowing researchers to observe brain function in a more natural, dynamic environment. The approach focuses on overcoming limitations of existing imaging techniques, which often sacrifice speed or resolution. Patients may benefit from insights gained into brain behavior and neural mechanisms that could inform future treatments for neurological conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding brain function and developing new therapies for neurological disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success with advanced imaging techniques in neuroscience, but this specific approach using MEMS technology for 3D imaging in behaving animals is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Oldham, Kenn R — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Oldham, Kenn R
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Expanding genetic testing for cancer risk in patients and families
This study is working to make it easier for cancer patients in Michigan to get genetic testing for cancer risk by improving how doctors gather family history and assess genetic risks, so that more people can receive the important evaluations they need.
-
HEARTS hypertension and diabetes care in Guatemala
This grant tests how well the HEARTS primary care model works in Guatemala to improve blood pressure and blood sugar control for patients.
-
Why the retina can sometimes heal itself and how we might help it heal
This NIH grant explores how inflammation and neural cells interact in the zebrafish retina to understand retinal neuron death and regeneration, with potential implications for human vision.
-
Integrated Heart Health: A HEARTS-based approach to hypertension and diabetes in Guatemala
A study tests a team-based, stepwise care model to improve blood pressure and blood sugar control for people with both hypertension and diabetes in Guatemala.
-
Understanding how work exposures and genes influence ALS risk
A study is building a long-term group of people at higher risk for ALS to see how their jobs, exposures at work, and genes together affect if and when the disease might develop.
-
An integrated mobile health program to reduce SAVA and mental health problems among female sex workers in Kenya
A new mobile health program aims to help female sex workers in Kenya avoid substance abuse, violence, HIV, and depression by delivering group therapy, online resources, and a peer discussion space.
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.