Imaging brain activity in awake animals using advanced optical techniques

Multi-color optical voltage imaging of neural activity in behaving animals

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-10992186

This study is all about finding new ways to see how different brain cells work together while animals are awake and moving around, helping us understand how these cells affect behavior.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-10992186 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing new imaging techniques to observe how different types of neurons in the brain interact during behavior. By using advanced optical tools and machine learning, researchers aim to create fluorescent indicators that can visualize electrical activity in multiple neuron types simultaneously. This will allow for a better understanding of how these neurons contribute to brain functions and behaviors in real-time. The research involves testing these techniques in awake, behaving animals to gather meaningful data on brain dynamics.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with neurological disorders or those interested in the underlying mechanisms of brain function.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to neural activity or those who are not suitable for animal-based research may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding brain function and disorders, potentially improving treatments for neurological conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Other research within the NIH BRAIN Initiative has shown success in developing innovative imaging techniques, suggesting a promising avenue for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.