Understanding and controlling brain signaling in living animals

Sensing and manipulating neuromodulatory signaling in vivo

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · OREGON HEALTH & SCIENCE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10650681

This study is exploring how certain brain chemicals affect how our brains work and how we behave, using special tools to watch and change these processes in real-time in living animals, which could help us find new ways to treat brain-related conditions.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorOREGON HEALTH & SCIENCE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PORTLAND, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10650681 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on how certain brain chemicals, known as neuromodulators, influence brain function and behavior. By developing advanced tools to monitor and manipulate these signaling pathways in real-time within living animals, the study aims to uncover the specific effects of neuromodulators on neuronal activity and behavior. The approach involves creating genetically encoded sensors that can track these signaling events at the level of individual neurons, which could lead to a better understanding of neuropsychiatric disorders. This research could ultimately help in identifying new therapeutic targets for conditions related to neuromodulation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neuropsychiatric disorders that may be linked to neuromodulatory dysfunction.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to neuromodulation or those who do not have neuropsychiatric disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for neuropsychiatric diseases by improving our understanding of brain signaling mechanisms.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using genetically encoded sensors for studying neuromodulation, but this specific approach is novel and aims to enhance in vivo applications.

Where this research is happening

PORTLAND, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.