New tools for controlling brain activity in neurological disorders
New classes of optogenetic and chemogenetic tools with a feedback control
This study is working on new ways to help people with neurological disorders like epilepsy, schizophrenia, and anxiety by using special tools that can gently control brain activity, aiming to improve treatments for those who haven't found relief with current options.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10469777 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing advanced optogenetic and chemogenetic tools that can control neuronal activity with high precision and minimal invasiveness. By creating tools that can quickly and effectively suppress irregular neuronal activities, the project aims to address challenges faced by patients with neurological disorders such as epilepsy, schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders. The approach combines light-based and drug-based techniques to achieve prolonged neuronal silencing, which is crucial for both research and therapeutic applications. The goal is to enhance the effectiveness of gene therapy for patients who do not respond to current treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from epilepsy, schizophrenia, or anxiety disorders, particularly those who have not responded well to existing treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with neurological disorders that do not involve irregular neuronal activities may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve the quality of life for patients with epilepsy and other neurological disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using optogenetic and chemogenetic tools for neuromodulation, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Wenjing — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Wang, Wenjing
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.