Using light to study and manipulate brain circuits
Lighting up the brain: Optogenetic tools to record, trace, and manipulate brain circuits at cellular resolution
This study is working on new ways to use light to see and interact with brain cells, which could help us better understand how our brains work and how conditions like memory issues and other neurological disorders happen.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10613165 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing advanced tools to visualize and manipulate brain circuits at a cellular level using light. By engineering genetically-encoded fluorescent reporters and voltage sensors, the project aims to enhance our ability to observe electrical and chemical signals in the brain that are crucial for understanding memory and behavior. The approach combines protein engineering and spectroscopy to improve the sensitivity and functionality of these sensors, allowing for deeper imaging within the brain. This could lead to significant advancements in our understanding of brain function and the underlying mechanisms of neurological disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with neurological disorders or those interested in brain health.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to brain function or those not residing in the research location may not receive benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding brain function and the development of new treatments for neurological disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success with similar optogenetic and imaging approaches, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
Providence, United States
- Brown University — Providence, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Abdelfattah, Ahmed — Brown University
- Study coordinator: Abdelfattah, Ahmed
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.