Understanding how the brain controls organ functions
Brain control of internal organ function
This study is exploring how the brain controls both our movements and important body functions, like insulin release and immune responses, to help us understand how these connections can improve health for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Allen Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10895436 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain coordinates movements and internal organ functions, such as insulin release and immune responses. By using advanced techniques like genetic manipulation and high-resolution imaging, the team aims to map the neural circuits that connect the brain to organs like the pancreas and spleen. This work will help uncover how our brain influences not just muscle movements but also vital physiological processes, which is crucial for adaptive behaviors. Patients may benefit from insights into how these mechanisms can be harnessed for better health outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with conditions affecting insulin regulation or immune responses.
Not a fit: Patients with stable organ function and no neurological or metabolic disorders may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for conditions related to organ function and behavior regulation.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding brain-organ interactions, but this specific approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- Allen Institute — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Costa, Rui M. — Allen Institute
- Study coordinator: Costa, Rui M.
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.