Mapping the brain's complex wiring system

BRAIN CONNECTS: The Axonal Projectome EXchange (APEX)

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN · NIH-11033905

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

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN (nih funded)
Locations1 site (AUSTIN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11033905 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with neurological disorders or those undergoing neurosurgical procedures.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to brain connectivity or those not requiring neurosurgical intervention may not receive direct benefits from this research.

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 performed: 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

AUSTIN, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.