Targeting brain circuits to treat epilepsy and mental health disorders
Development and validation of AAV vectors to manipulate specific neuronal subtypes and circuits involved in epilepsy and psychiatric disorders across mammalian species.
This study is exploring new ways to control certain brain cells to better understand and treat conditions like epilepsy and mental health issues, using special tools that could eventually help people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Broad Institute, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10783786 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing advanced tools to manipulate specific types of neurons in the brain, which could help in understanding and treating conditions like epilepsy and psychiatric disorders. By using engineered viruses, the researchers aim to gain genetic access to these neurons in both animal models and potentially in humans. The project combines expertise in brain cell development and gene regulation to identify elements that allow for precise control of brain circuits. This innovative approach could lead to new therapies that directly target the underlying causes of these disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals suffering from epilepsy or psychiatric disorders who may benefit from novel therapeutic approaches.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to epilepsy or psychiatric disorders may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to groundbreaking treatments for epilepsy and various mental health disorders by enabling targeted modulation of brain circuits.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using similar gene-targeting approaches, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Cambridge, United States
- Broad Institute, INC. — Cambridge, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fishell, Gordon J — Broad Institute, INC.
- Study coordinator: Fishell, Gordon J
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.