New technology for measuring brain signals and chemicals quickly

Multimodal MEAs for Parallel Electrical Recording and Sub-second Neuromodulator Sensing

NIH-funded research Dartmouth College · NIH-11027222

This study is working on new tiny devices that can listen to brain signals and check for important chemicals at the same time, helping us learn more about how the brain works during different activities, which could lead to better treatments for conditions like ADHD.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDartmouth College NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Hanover, United States)
Project IDNIH-11027222 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing advanced microelectrode arrays (MEAs) that can simultaneously record electrical signals and detect neuromodulators in the brain in real-time. By improving the stability of carbon coatings on these electrodes, the team aims to create a device that can provide detailed insights into brain activity and chemical changes during various behaviors. The research involves testing these devices in awake rodent models to understand the relationship between brain oscillations and neurotransmitter release. Patients may benefit from the findings as they could lead to better understanding and treatment of conditions like ADHD.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or other neurological conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to neuromodulation or brain signal processing may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of brain function and lead to improved treatments for neurological conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using similar technologies for neuromodulator sensing, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Hanover, 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.
Conditions Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.