Understanding complex brain behaviors through advanced tracing techniques
Official title: Diversity Supplement for a STEM diversity trainee in the lab
Funded at University of California Santa Cruz · NIH-11000719 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different parts of the brain work together to create complex behaviors by using special tools to track multiple brain circuits in animals, helping us learn more about how the brain develops and learns.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Santa Cruz NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Santa Cruz, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $183,903 |
| NIH project number | 3RF1MH132591-01S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11000719 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with neurological disorders or those interested in the underlying mechanisms of brain function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable, non-neurological conditions may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to explore the anatomical basis of complex neural behaviors by developing innovative methods to trace multiple neural circuits simultaneously in animals. By utilizing engineered viral tracers, the project seeks to capture the dynamic connectivity of the brain during critical periods of development and learning. This approach will enhance our understanding of how different neural circuits interact, which is essential for comprehending complex behaviors. The research will involve various model species to ensure a comprehensive analysis of neural connectivity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding brain disorders and improving treatments for neurological conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in tracing neural circuits, but this approach is innovative and aims to overcome existing limitations.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kim, Euiseok J — University of California Santa Cruz
- Study coordinator: Kim, Euiseok J
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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.