Investigating brain cell activity using advanced imaging techniques

Core C

NIH-funded research Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center · NIH-10897849

This study is looking at how brain cells work and communicate by using special tools to observe their activity in a lab setting, which could help us learn more about brain disorders and improve treatments in the future.

Quick facts

Grant typeP01 program project
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10897849 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding brain cell activity through in vitro electrophysiological studies. It utilizes innovative tools such as optogenetics and DREADDs to manipulate and observe brain slices, allowing researchers to record electrical activity and calcium levels in real-time. The core facility will prepare brain slices, conduct patch-clamp recordings, and perform calcium imaging studies to analyze how brain cells communicate and function. This research aims to provide insights that could enhance our understanding of brain disorders and inform future treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

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

Not a fit: Patients with acute neurological emergencies or those not willing to participate in experimental procedures may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into brain function and potential therapies for neurological disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Other research utilizing optogenetics and electrophysiological techniques has shown promising results in understanding brain function and disorders.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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 2026-06-09 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.