Understanding how brain cells manage energy use
Dynamics of Cellular Brain Metabolism Using Mass Spectrometry Imaging
This study looks at how different brain cells use energy, which is important for keeping our brains healthy, and it’s designed for anyone interested in understanding how problems with energy use in the brain might lead to diseases like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard Medical School NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11012342 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how different types of brain cells respond to energy demands, which is crucial for both immediate brain function and long-term health. By using acute brain slices from mice, the team will stimulate neurons and analyze their metabolic responses through advanced imaging techniques. This approach allows for a detailed understanding of how metabolism varies among cell types in real brain tissue, rather than in isolated cultures. The findings could reveal how metabolic dysfunction contributes to neurodegenerative diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurodegenerative diseases or those at risk of developing such conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with acute brain injuries or those not affected by neurodegenerative conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into brain health and potential treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain metabolism, but this specific approach using mass spectrometry imaging is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Harvard Medical School — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yellen, Gary I — Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Yellen, Gary I
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.