Mapping neural circuits in the brain
Official title: Methods for anterograde tracing of active circuits
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-11105219 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new way to track brain connections, especially how certain brain cells communicate, which could help us understand changes that happen with age or diseases, ultimately leading to better treatments for neurological conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | April 4, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $749,331 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH139680-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11105219 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with neurological conditions or those interested in the effects of aging on brain function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute neurological injuries or those not affected by neurological conditions may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new method to trace neural circuits in the brain, particularly from inhibitory neurons. It aims to create a non-toxic, activity-dependent tracer that can label postsynaptic cells genetically, allowing researchers to study how these circuits change during various conditions such as aging and disease. By using a novel approach that avoids traditional methods, this research seeks to provide a clearer understanding of brain connectivity and function. Patients may benefit from insights gained into neurological conditions and potential new treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding and treating neurological disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success with similar tracing methods, but this specific approach targeting inhibitory neurons is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Arnold, Donald B — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Arnold, Donald B
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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.