Mapping brain circuits using flexible microelectrode arrays
Official title: Curved Implantation of Flexible Microelectrode Arrays for High-Density Mapping of Nonlinear Brain Structures and Circuits
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10835360 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on new ways to create super-thin, flexible tools that can safely record brain activity in more detail, helping scientists better understand how the brain works.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $237,914 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EY035955-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10835360 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological conditions that require detailed brain mapping for diagnosis or treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions that do not involve complex brain circuitry or those who are not candidates for surgical intervention may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing advanced techniques to map the complex three-dimensional structures of the brain using flexible microelectrode arrays. By employing a nonlinear implantation method, the study aims to enhance the spatial resolution of neuronal activity recordings, which is crucial for understanding brain function. The approach involves creating ultraflexible probes that can be deployed along curved brain circuits with minimal surgical impact. This innovative technology could lead to significant advancements in neuroscience and brain mapping.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide more accurate insights into brain function and potentially improve treatments for neurological disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced neural probes for brain mapping, indicating that this approach could lead to significant breakthroughs in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lin, Dingchang — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Lin, Dingchang
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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.