Mapping and controlling brain circuits using advanced technology
Official title: Computational Methods for Precise Holographic Control and Mapping of Neural Circuits
Funded at Columbia Univ New York Morningside · NIH-11031939 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on new computer techniques to help scientists better control and understand brain circuits, which could lead to improved treatments for conditions like Alzheimer's, making it easier to figure out how brain connections work and what goes wrong in diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia Univ New York Morningside NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | February 12, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $136,085 |
| NIH project number | 5K99NS135649-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11031939 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related neurological conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurological disorders unrelated to synaptic connectivity or those without a diagnosis of Alzheimer's may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing new computational methods to enhance holographic optogenetics, a technology that allows precise control and mapping of neural circuits in the brain. By creating algorithms that can analyze and interpret complex data from these experiments, the research aims to improve our understanding of how neural connections function and how they may be disrupted in diseases like Alzheimer's. Patients may benefit from advancements in this field as it could lead to better treatments for neurological disorders. The approach involves using machine learning to optimize the stimulation of specific neuron populations, allowing for detailed mapping of brain connectivity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding and treating Alzheimer's disease and other neurological disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results using similar computational approaches in neuroscience, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia Univ New York Morningside
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Triplett, Marcus — Columbia Univ New York Morningside
- Study coordinator: Triplett, Marcus
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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.