Engineering vasoactive probes for brain-wide imaging of molecular signaling
This project aims to develop AVATars that convert neurotransmitter signaling into hemodynamic signals for enhanced fMRI, enabling visualization of molecular dynamics in brain function.
Projectdetails
Introduction
Brain function depends on spatiotemporally defined brain-wide signaling via molecules such as neurotransmitters. No current technology can measure signaling molecules throughout the brain with sufficient spatial and temporal resolution in living mammals. This poses a major roadblock for understanding how molecular neuronal communication coordinates whole-brain function.
Current Technology Limitations
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) currently provides the highest brain-wide resolution. Dynamic imaging of blood flow and oxygenation in the finely arborized vasculature, so-called functional MRI (fMRI), is the only method that can visualize whole-brain function in mammals and humans.
However, MRI is inherently insensitive, which precludes it from accessing molecular signaling that occurs at (sub)micromolar concentrations, and fMRI cannot resolve neurotransmitter signaling underlying measured hemodynamic signals.
Previous Work
I previously designed protein-based vasoactive sensors, named AVATar, that directly cause hemodynamic signals in fMRI in response to target molecules at low nanomolar doses, without using radioactive or metallic components. They can be genetically encoded and also pave the way for noninvasive brain delivery through the vasculature, which is critical for translational applications in primates and humans.
Project Objectives
Here, I will combine my expertise in synthetic biology and in vivo molecular imaging to develop my proof-of-concept work into a robust preclinical neuroimaging method along three objectives:
- Engineering AVATars that convert neurotransmitter signaling into hemodynamic signals.
- Brain delivery via non-invasive routes.
- Application for fMRI of brain-wide neurotransmitter signaling in rodents.
Expected Outcomes
My project will provide neurotransmitter-sensing AVATars to turn fMRI into molecular fMRI and bridge the long-standing gap between molecular nuclear imaging and functional hemodynamic imaging. AVATars will visualize how brain-wide molecular signaling dynamics shape healthy and pathological brain function.
Financiële details & Tijdlijn
Financiële details
Subsidiebedrag | € 1.492.968 |
Totale projectbegroting | € 1.492.968 |
Tijdlijn
Startdatum | 1-5-2023 |
Einddatum | 30-4-2028 |
Subsidiejaar | 2023 |
Partners & Locaties
Projectpartners
- MAX-PLANCK-GESELLSCHAFT ZUR FORDERUNG DER WISSENSCHAFTEN EVpenvoerder
- TECHNISCHE UNIVERSITAET MUENCHEN
Land(en)
Vergelijkbare projecten binnen European Research Council
Project | Regeling | Bedrag | Jaar | Actie |
---|---|---|---|---|
MRI-based ID of the Vasculature across the Heart-Brain AxisDeveloping VascularID, a non-invasive MRI tool for assessing cardiac and cerebral microvasculature, to enhance understanding and treatment of heart-brain axis diseases. | ERC Starting... | € 1.852.430 | 2023 | Details |
measuriNg nEURal dynamics with label-free OpticaL multI-DomAin RecordingsThis project aims to innovate label-free optical methods for monitoring neural dynamics in the brain, enhancing understanding and treatment of brain diseases without exogenous reporters. | ERC Starting... | € 1.634.825 | 2025 | Details |
Transformative Pediatric Brain Cancer Imaging using Integrated Biophysics-AI Molecular MRIDevelop a novel AI-driven molecular MRI technology for rapid, noninvasive monitoring of pediatric brain cancer treatment response, enhancing precision medicine and understanding of tumor dynamics. | ERC Starting... | € 1.497.669 | 2024 | Details |
Advancing neuroscience by imaging BRAin Cortical fibErsThis project aims to non-invasively map cortical fibers using advanced MRI techniques to understand their role in cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases. | ERC Starting... | € 1.499.736 | 2025 | Details |
A sonogenetic brain-machine interface for neurosciences and visual restorationDeveloping a novel sonogenetic brain-machine interface for remote, precise control of neuronal networks in large primate brains to advance treatments for neurological disorders. | ERC Synergy ... | € 7.817.939 | 2024 | Details |
MRI-based ID of the Vasculature across the Heart-Brain Axis
Developing VascularID, a non-invasive MRI tool for assessing cardiac and cerebral microvasculature, to enhance understanding and treatment of heart-brain axis diseases.
measuriNg nEURal dynamics with label-free OpticaL multI-DomAin Recordings
This project aims to innovate label-free optical methods for monitoring neural dynamics in the brain, enhancing understanding and treatment of brain diseases without exogenous reporters.
Transformative Pediatric Brain Cancer Imaging using Integrated Biophysics-AI Molecular MRI
Develop a novel AI-driven molecular MRI technology for rapid, noninvasive monitoring of pediatric brain cancer treatment response, enhancing precision medicine and understanding of tumor dynamics.
Advancing neuroscience by imaging BRAin Cortical fibErs
This project aims to non-invasively map cortical fibers using advanced MRI techniques to understand their role in cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases.
A sonogenetic brain-machine interface for neurosciences and visual restoration
Developing a novel sonogenetic brain-machine interface for remote, precise control of neuronal networks in large primate brains to advance treatments for neurological disorders.
Vergelijkbare projecten uit andere regelingen
Project | Regeling | Bedrag | Jaar | Actie |
---|---|---|---|---|
A synaptic mechanogenetic technology to repair brain connectivityDeveloping a mechanogenetic technology using magnetic nanoparticles to non-invasively regulate neural circuits for treating treatment-resistant brain disorders like stroke and epilepsy. | EIC Pathfinder | € 3.543.967 | 2023 | Details |
Remote whole-brain functional microscopy of the vascular system: a paradigm shift for the monitoring and treatment of small vessel diseasesThe project aims to revolutionize neuroimaging by developing functional Ultrasound Localization Microscopy (fULM) for high-resolution monitoring of brain vasculature and function, enhancing disease diagnosis and treatment evaluation. | EIC Pathfinder | € 3.946.172 | 2022 | Details |
MagnetoElectric and Ultrasonic Technology for Advanced BRAIN modulationMETA-BRAIN aims to develop non-invasive, precise control of brain activity using magnetoelectric nanoarchitectures and ultrasonic technologies, enhancing treatment for neurological disorders. | EIC Pathfinder | € 2.987.655 | 2024 | Details |
A synaptic mechanogenetic technology to repair brain connectivity
Developing a mechanogenetic technology using magnetic nanoparticles to non-invasively regulate neural circuits for treating treatment-resistant brain disorders like stroke and epilepsy.
Remote whole-brain functional microscopy of the vascular system: a paradigm shift for the monitoring and treatment of small vessel diseases
The project aims to revolutionize neuroimaging by developing functional Ultrasound Localization Microscopy (fULM) for high-resolution monitoring of brain vasculature and function, enhancing disease diagnosis and treatment evaluation.
MagnetoElectric and Ultrasonic Technology for Advanced BRAIN modulation
META-BRAIN aims to develop non-invasive, precise control of brain activity using magnetoelectric nanoarchitectures and ultrasonic technologies, enhancing treatment for neurological disorders.