Understanding how brain activity changes during development
Development and Divergence of Whole-Brain Activity
This study looks at how the brain activity of tiny worms changes as they grow up, helping us understand how their brains work and how this affects their behavior.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northeastern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11064835 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain activity of the worm Caenorhabditis elegans changes as it develops from a newly-hatched larva to an adult. By using advanced calcium imaging techniques, the researchers will observe the brain's activity patterns and how they relate to the brain's structure and connectivity. The study aims to uncover the variability in brain function among individual worms and how this affects their behavior. This research could provide insights into the fundamental principles of brain function and development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in the biological and neurological sciences, particularly those studying developmental biology or neuroscience.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to neurological development or those not engaged in scientific research may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of brain development and function, potentially informing treatments for neurological conditions.
How similar studies have performed: While this research focuses on a specific model organism, similar approaches in studying brain connectivity and function have shown promise in other contexts, suggesting potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Northeastern University — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Venkatachalam, Vivek — Northeastern University
- Study coordinator: Venkatachalam, Vivek
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.