Using magnetic and viral tools to study brain and body connections
Fusion of nanomagnetic and viral tools to interrogate brain-body circuits
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · NIH-10892245
This study is exploring how the brain and other parts of the body talk to each other and affect our feelings and motivation, using a new technique that lets researchers control specific cells from a distance, which could help us understand the connection between our gut and brain better.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CAMBRIDGE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10892245 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how signals between the brain and peripheral organs influence behaviors such as mood and motivation. By developing a new method that combines magnetic nanomaterials and viral vectors, the team aims to target and control specific cells in the body and brain remotely. This approach allows for precise modulation of neuronal activity during natural behaviors, potentially leading to new insights into how the gut and brain communicate. The research seeks to create a versatile framework applicable across different species.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing affective disorders or related conditions that may benefit from improved brain-body communication.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to brain-body signaling or those not experiencing affective disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments for affective disorders by enhancing our understanding of brain-body interactions.
How similar studies have performed: While the combination of magnetic and viral tools is a novel approach, similar research has shown promise in understanding brain-body interactions.
Where this research is happening
CAMBRIDGE, UNITED STATES
- MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY — CAMBRIDGE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ANIKEEVA, POLINA O — MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
- Study coordinator: ANIKEEVA, POLINA O
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.
Conditions: Affective Disorders