Understanding how genes influence brain connections
Official title: Revealing the transcriptional basis of corticothalamic projections using in situ sequence-based neuroanatomy
Funded at Allen Institute · NIH-10987017 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how genes influence the way brain cells connect and work together, which could help us understand brain function better and lead to new treatments for neurological conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Allen Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | November 15, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $538,529 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH133181-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10987017 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 conditions or those interested in brain health and development.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to brain function or those outside the age range of 21+ years may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between gene expression and the long-range connections of neurons in the brain. By using advanced techniques called BARseq and retro-BARseq, the study aims to map out how different genes affect the structure and function of neuronal circuits at a cellular level. This approach allows researchers to analyze thousands of neurons simultaneously, providing insights into the diversity of cell types and their projections across the cortex. Patients may benefit from a deeper understanding of brain function and potential treatments for neurological conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into brain function and improved treatments for neurological disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success using similar high-throughput sequencing techniques to map neuronal connections, indicating a promising approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Allen Institute
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Xiaoyin — Allen Institute
- Study coordinator: Chen, Xiaoyin
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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.