New tools to visualize gene activity in the human brain
Official title: Next generation spatial genomics tools for the human brain
Funded at Spatial Genomics, INC. · NIH-11186828 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on improving a special technology that helps scientists see how genes are expressed in brain tissues, which is important for understanding brain disorders, and it's designed for researchers who want to learn more about these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Spatial Genomics, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pasadena, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,244,076 |
| NIH project number | 1R44MH140731-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11186828 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological disorders or conditions that affect brain function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurological conditions or those not affected by brain-related issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on advancing spatial genomics technology to better visualize gene expression in human brain tissues, which is crucial for understanding neurological disorders. The team at Spatial Genomics is working on enhancing their Gene Positioning System (GenePS) platform, which utilizes a method called sequential fluorescence in situ hybridization (seqFISH) to image thousands of genes directly in brain samples. By developing new assays that can be reliably used across various brain tissues, this project aims to overcome current limitations such as high autofluorescence and poor RNA quality in brain samples.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment of neurological disorders by providing detailed insights into gene interactions in the brain.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using spatial genomics for other tissues, suggesting potential success for similar approaches in brain tissues.
Where this research is happening
-
Spatial Genomics, INC.
Pasadena, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Frieda, Kirsten — Spatial Genomics, INC.
- Study coordinator: Frieda, Kirsten
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Next-generation brain spatial genomics tools
A new NIH-supported project aims to improve brain tissue mapping by making spatial gene expression assays more powerful and reliable in human brain samples.
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Analyzing gene expression in the brains of Alzheimer's patients
This study is looking at the brains of people with Alzheimer's to better understand how their cells work and interact, using special technology to see thousands of genes at once, which could help us find new ways to understand and treat the disease.
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Mapping the spatial organization of tumor cells in breast cancer samples
This study is looking at how different cells in breast cancer tumors work together and where they are located, using special imaging tools to help improve how we diagnose and treat the disease.
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Exploring gene activity in human and mouse brains using advanced imaging techniques
This study is exploring new ways to see and understand how genes are arranged in the brains of humans and mice, which could help us learn more about how brain cells work together and communicate, ultimately helping us uncover the mysteries of brain function.
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.