Improving tools to measure brain signals and neurotransmitter activity
Official title: Optimization of genetically encoded voltage and neurotransmitter indicators for multiwavelength in vivo analysis of brain circuits
Funded at Max Planck Florida Corporation · NIH-11124224 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new ways to see how brain chemicals work in real-time, which could help us understand brain function better and eventually lead to new treatments for neurological conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Max Planck Florida Corporation NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Jupiter, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,957,725 |
| NIH project number | 5UM1MH136462-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11124224 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological conditions that affect brain signaling and neurotransmitter function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with purely structural brain issues unrelated to neurotransmitter signaling may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing genetically encoded indicators that can measure brain activity and neurotransmitter release in real-time. By using advanced microscopy techniques, the team aims to capture the timing and location of neurotransmitter activity in various brain circuits. The goal is to develop tools that can provide detailed insights into how different chemical signals influence brain function, which could lead to a better understanding of brain dynamics and disorders. Patients may benefit from the findings as they could lead to new treatments for neurological conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding and treating neurological disorders by providing new insights into brain signaling.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using genetically encoded indicators for brain activity, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Max Planck Florida Corporation
Jupiter, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tian, Lin — Max Planck Florida Corporation
- Study coordinator: Tian, Lin
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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.