How brain activity patterns develop and affect brain circuits
Emergence of activity patterns in the cerebral cortex and their influence on brain circuit development and function
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-10897810
This study is looking at how brain activity starts to develop in unborn baby dunnarts and how it helps shape their brain circuits, which could give us important clues about how brains work and grow before birth.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10897810 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the emergence of activity patterns in the cerebral cortex during fetal development and their influence on the formation of brain circuits. By using advanced imaging techniques on the fat-tailed dunnart, a marsupial, the study aims to uncover when and how these activity patterns begin and how they shape sensory processing in the brain. The research focuses on understanding the timing and regulation of these patterns to provide insights into brain function and development. This approach allows for a unique examination of brain activity before birth, which has been challenging to study in other models.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals interested in the developmental aspects of brain function, particularly those with conditions affecting sensory processing.
Not a fit: Patients with fully developed brains or those not affected by developmental brain disorders may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of brain development and potentially inform treatments for developmental brain disorders.
How similar studies have performed: While this approach is novel in its application to marsupials, similar studies in other animal models have shown promising results in understanding brain development.
Where this research is happening
SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES
- WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY — SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: RICHARDS, LINDA J — WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: RICHARDS, LINDA J
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 below.