Understanding brain activity patterns in newborns and older adults
Thalamic contributions to the developing EEG
This study is looking at how certain brain cells help shape brain activity patterns in newborns and older adults, aiming to better understand and diagnose issues in at-risk newborns and learn more about brain health in older people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | George Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11067767 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how thalamic neurons contribute to the development of electroencephalography (EEG) patterns in newborns and older adults. By using a preclinical model, the researchers will measure brain activity in neonatal rodents to understand how disruptions in specific brain areas affect EEG patterns. The goal is to create a developmental activity atlas that links abnormal EEG patterns in at-risk newborns to specific brain disruptions, which could improve diagnostic tools for fragile infants. This approach may also provide insights into brain development and injury in older adults.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include newborns at risk for brain injury and older adults experiencing age-related cognitive decline.
Not a fit: Patients who are not newborns or older adults, or those without any neurological concerns, may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools for monitoring brain health in newborns and older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding brain activity patterns through EEG, but this specific approach is novel and aims to fill significant gaps in knowledge.
Where this research is happening
Washington, United States
- George Washington University — Washington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Colonnese, Matthew Todd — George Washington University
- Study coordinator: Colonnese, Matthew Todd
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.