Mapping the brain's complex wiring system
Official title: BRAIN CONNECTS: The Axonal Projectome EXchange (APEX)
Funded at University of Texas at Austin · NIH-11033905 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working to create a detailed map of how brain cells connect and communicate, which could help doctors develop better treatments for conditions affecting the brain, making it easier for patients to get the care they need.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project start | January 21, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,213,341 |
| NIH project number | 1U24NS140384-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11033905 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 disorders or those undergoing neurosurgical procedures.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to brain connectivity or those not requiring neurosurgical intervention may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to create a detailed map of the axonal projections in the primate brain, which are essential for understanding how different brain cells communicate. By developing advanced imaging techniques and coordinating data from various projects, the study will generate comprehensive wiring diagrams that span entire brains. This information will not only enhance our basic understanding of brain function but also have significant implications for clinical applications in neurosurgery and neuro-modulation. Patients may benefit from improved treatment strategies based on this enhanced understanding of brain connectivity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding brain function and developing new treatments for neurological conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Other research initiatives focused on brain mapping have shown promising results, indicating that this approach has the potential for significant advancements in neuroscience.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas at Austin
Austin, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pestilli, Franco — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Pestilli, Franco
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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.