Mapping the connections of the human brainstem.
BRAIN CONNECTS: Mapping Connectivity of the Human Brainstem in a Nuclear Coordinate System
This study is working on making a detailed map of the brainstem to help researchers better understand how it works, which could be really helpful for people with neurological conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10916313 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to create a detailed atlas of the human brainstem, which contains approximately 1 billion neurons. By utilizing advanced imaging technologies, such as light-sheet fluorescence microscopy and polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography, the project will visualize brainstem networks at various scales, from large circuits to individual cells. This comprehensive mapping will help researchers understand the complex architecture and connectivity of the brainstem, which is crucial for various neurological conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
Not a fit: Patients with neurological conditions unrelated to the brainstem or those without cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment of neurological disorders, particularly Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in mapping brain structures using advanced imaging techniques, indicating that this approach has the potential for significant breakthroughs.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fischl, Bruce — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Fischl, Bruce
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 below.