Mapping brain connections using advanced sequencing techniques
Official title: BRAIN CONNECTS: Mapping brain-wide connectivity of neuronal types using barcoded connectomics
Funded at Allen Institute · NIH-10911990 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how brain cells connect with each other by using special techniques to label them, which helps researchers understand the brain's wiring better, and it's aimed at improving our knowledge of brain function in animals like monkeys.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Allen Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | August 22, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $2,224,420 |
| NIH project number | 5U01NS132161-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10911990 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with neurological conditions that affect brain connectivity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to brain connectivity or those who do not meet specific criteria for participation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to map the connections of neurons throughout the brain by using innovative sequencing-based techniques. By labeling neurons with unique RNA sequences, or 'barcodes', researchers can identify and analyze the projections and synaptic connections of these neurons in non-human primates. This approach overcomes limitations of traditional microscopy methods, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of brain connectivity at a cellular level. The project will focus on optimizing techniques to achieve high throughput mapping of neuronal connections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to significant advancements in our understanding of brain function and connectivity, potentially informing treatments for neurological disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise with similar sequencing-based approaches, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Allen Institute
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Xiaoyin — Allen Institute
- Study coordinator: Chen, Xiaoyin
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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.