Rethinking how dendrites shape neuron signals
Official title: Reexamining the Role of Dendrites in Neuronal Function
Funded at Columbia Univ New York Morningside · NIH-11411423 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project studies how dendrites actively influence brain signals in living animals to understand better how neurons process information.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia Univ New York Morningside NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $2,569,705 |
| NIH project number | 5RM1NS132981-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11411423 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Not applicable to a specific patient group; the study is conducted in mouse models.
✕Less likely to help
Results may not directly translate to humans in the short term.
What this research studies
Researchers will use advanced imaging and stimulation to watch dendrites in real time as they are activated in patterns that mimic natural inputs. They will combine genetically engineered voltage indicators, 3D two-photon imaging, and holographic optogenetics to trigger dendritic events while recording activity in neighboring soma and dendrites. The goal is to build a dendrite-centered view of neuronal function and test how dendritic spikes affect overall brain signaling during sensory experiences and rest. By bringing together multiple expert labs, the study aims to map when and how dendritic activity changes the output of neurons in vivo.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: A clearer picture of dendrites could lead to better understanding of brain processing and inform new approaches for treating neurological conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work suggests dendrites play active roles; this project seeks to advance in vivo confirmation with cutting-edge tools.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia Univ New York Morningside
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yuste, Rafael — Columbia Univ New York Morningside
- Study coordinator: Yuste, Rafael
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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.