New imaging technique to study brain circuits involved in behavior
Whole brain, PET-based molecular neuroimaging of fos expression – a new tool for imaging neurocircuitry involved in complex behavior
['FUNDING_R21'] · HENRY FORD HEALTH + MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-11118075
This study is exploring a new way to take pictures of the brain while it's awake to see how different parts work together during activities and thinking, helping us learn more about how the brain functions normally and what might go wrong in certain conditions.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | HENRY FORD HEALTH + MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (EAST LANSING, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11118075 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel PET-based molecular neuroimaging technique designed to visualize and measure the activity of neural circuits in the brain of awake mammals. By using a specific molecular probe that targets neuronal activity, the study aims to identify how different brain circuits interact during complex behaviors and cognitive tasks. This non-invasive approach allows for repeated imaging, providing insights into both normal brain function and conditions that may disrupt these processes. The goal is to enhance our understanding of the brain's dynamic processing of information.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological or psychiatric conditions that affect cognitive and behavioral functions.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to neural circuitry or those who are not suitable for imaging studies may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding brain function and disorders, potentially improving treatments for neurological and psychiatric conditions.
How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar neuroimaging techniques have shown promise in understanding brain function, suggesting potential for success.
Where this research is happening
EAST LANSING, UNITED STATES
- HENRY FORD HEALTH + MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES — EAST LANSING, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SHAPIRO, ERIK — HENRY FORD HEALTH + MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES
- Study coordinator: SHAPIRO, ERIK
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.