Mapping the connections in the mouse brain using advanced imaging techniques
Official title: BRAIN CONNECTS: Center for a pipeline of high throughput integrated volumetric electron microscopy for whole mouse brain connectomics
Funded at Allen Institute · NIH-10917205 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is all about making a detailed map of how different cells in the mouse brain connect with each other, which could help us understand brain disorders better and find new treatments for them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Allen Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $5,648,698 |
| NIH project number | 5UM1NS132253-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10917205 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals with neurological conditions or those interested in brain health and function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to brain function or those not residing in the geographic area of the research may not receive direct benefits.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating a detailed map of the connections between different cell types in the mouse brain using high-throughput integrated volumetric electron microscopy. By improving imaging techniques and data processing methods, the project aims to systematically uncover the wiring diagram of the brain, which is crucial for understanding how brain functions are organized. The research builds on previous successes in mapping simpler organisms and seeks to apply those insights to the more complex mouse brain. Patients can benefit from this research as it may lead to new insights into brain disorders and potential treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide critical insights into brain connectivity that may lead to improved understanding and treatment of neurological disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research in simpler organisms like C. elegans and Drosophila has shown success in mapping brain connections, suggesting that this approach could be effective in mice as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Allen Institute
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Macarico Da Costa, Nuno — Allen Institute
- Study coordinator: Macarico Da Costa, Nuno
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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.