Understanding how the brain changes in response to experiences using advanced imaging techniques.
Official title: Analyzing brain-wide bases of neuroplastic change using new imaging tools
Funded at Massachusetts Institute of Technology · NIH-11028991 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how the brain can change and adapt over time by using a new imaging method to see what happens in the brain when we have different experiences, helping us understand how our thoughts and actions can shape our brain's structure and function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $613,107 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DA062195-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11028991 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing addiction or related disorders who are interested in understanding the underlying brain mechanisms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable neurological conditions that do not involve neuroplastic changes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the brain's ability to adapt and change, known as neuroplasticity, by using a new imaging method called BLUsH. This technique allows researchers to observe molecular and cellular changes in the brain in real-time, providing insights into how experiences influence brain structure and function. By mapping these changes, the study aims to uncover the relationships between neural activity and the genes involved in brain plasticity. This could lead to a better understanding of how the brain responds to various stimuli over time.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating conditions related to brain plasticity, such as addiction and other neurological disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using advanced imaging techniques has shown promise in understanding brain plasticity, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jasanoff, Alan — Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Jasanoff, Alan
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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.