Understanding how brain white matter connects and communicates
Official title: Functional Connectome of Brain White Matter
Funded at Vanderbilt University · NIH-11085929 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how signals in the brain's white matter relate to activity in the gray matter, using special brain scans, to better understand how different parts of the brain work together, especially in conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $460,430 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS129855-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11085929 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those experiencing cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurological conditions or those without cognitive impairments may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) signals in brain white matter and neural activity in gray matter using advanced functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). By developing new analytical methods, the study aims to incorporate previously overlooked white matter signals into models of brain function, enhancing our understanding of how different brain regions communicate. The research will analyze large datasets to identify patterns of connectivity that could reveal important insights into brain function, particularly in conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic and treatment strategies for patients with Alzheimer's disease and other cognitive disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain connectivity through similar imaging techniques, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ding, Zhaohua — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Ding, Zhaohua
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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.