Imaging brain activity in the cerebellum of freely moving animals
Official title: Cerebellum wide imaging of neural activity in freely behaving animals
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11116217 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a part of the brain called the cerebellum helps with both movement and other activities by watching the brain activity of mice as they move around, using a special camera that gives a clear view of what's happening.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $183,751 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS143157-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11116217 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with conditions affecting motor control or cognitive functions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cerebellar function or those who do not have neurological disorders may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the cerebellum processes information related to both motor and non-motor functions by imaging neural activity in freely behaving mice. The team will develop a miniaturized ultra-widefield micro-camera array microscope (MCAM) that allows for high-resolution imaging of the cerebellar cortex. By using advanced techniques, including a transparent polymer window implant and genetic labeling of specific cell types, the researchers aim to capture detailed neuronal activity patterns during various behaviors. This approach will provide insights into the fundamental mechanisms of brain function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of cerebellar function, potentially leading to improved treatments for motor and cognitive disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in using advanced imaging techniques to study brain function, making this approach promising yet innovative.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kodandaramaiah, Suhasa B — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Kodandaramaiah, Suhasa B
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.