Improving imaging techniques to observe electrical activity in brain cells
Official title: Validation and Optimization of Two-Photon Dendritic Voltage Imaging in Vivo
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-10829452 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring new ways to see how brain cells communicate and process information through their tiny branches, using special sensors and imaging techniques, which could help us understand brain function better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | April 17, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $333,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R34NS132045-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10829452 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions affecting neuronal function or those interested in the underlying mechanisms of brain activity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to neuronal function or those not residing in the research location may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing imaging methods to visualize how neurons in the brain integrate information through their dendrites. It utilizes advanced fluorescent voltage sensors, specifically the JEDI sensors, which have been developed to overcome previous limitations in brightness and sensitivity. By employing two-photon imaging techniques, the study aims to capture the electrical signals in fine dendrites of neurons in living animals, providing insights into brain function. This could lead to a better understanding of how information is processed in the brain's cortical circuits.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly advance our understanding of neuronal communication and potentially lead to new treatments for neurological disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise with similar imaging techniques, but this approach aims to validate and optimize a novel method that has not been extensively tested in vivo.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Reimer, Jacob — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Reimer, Jacob
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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.