Circuit Diagrams

Tools for Gene Editing in Marmosets SUMMARY The goal of this proposal is to create an efficient new set of tools and techniques for the generation of genetically modified marmosets suitable for use as models of brain physiology and function. Development of efficient methods of genetic manipulation in the species will require refinement of genome editing technologies, breeding technologies, ovarian stimulation and oocyte retrieval, embryo culture, and pre-implantation screening of embryos for the desired genetic alternations.

 DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has become one of the leading research tools to study brain function and is playing a pivotal role in several large-scale brain mapping projects worldwide. Despite ongoing technical advancements in MRI which have greatly increased its availability and helped improve the resolution for functional brain mapping, we still have very limited understanding of what fMRI signals really represent.

 DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has become one of the leading research tools to study brain function and is playing a pivotal role in several large-scale brain mapping projects worldwide. Despite ongoing technical advancements in MRI which have greatly increased its availability and helped improve the resolution for functional brain mapping, we still have very limited understanding of what fMRI signals really represent.

This revised proposal is in response to PAR-15-090 "BRAIN Initiative: Development, Optimization, and Validation of Novel Tools and Technologies for Neuroscience Research".

The fundamental objective of the BRAIN Initiative is to understand how dynamic activity in distributed neural circuits mediates human cognitive behavior.

PROJECT SUMMARY The goal of the proposed research career development program is to allow the applicant to acquire training in a new form of brain stimulation using ultrasonic waves. The career development activities will be carried out in a prominent ultrasound laboratory, where the candidate will receive hands-on training in the application and analysis of ultrasonic stimulation in animal models.

ABSTRACT The basal ganglia are critical for the learning and subsequent selection of motor programs. In health, adaptive plasticity in the basal ganglia enables easy execution of complex motor tasks through formation of habits. Conversely, in disease, repetitive behaviors, addictions and compulsions are thought to derive from maladaptive plasticity involving basal ganglia circuitry.

Project Summary/Abstract The investigation of the complex neural dynamics and the cognitive functions of the brain requires non- invasive recording tools with high spatio-temporal resolution. Sub-cellular resolution fluorescence imaging/microscopy, based on either voltage indicators or calcium-sensitive fluorescent proteins, enables parallel recording of the activity of spatially distributed neuron populations.

This Phase I SBIR develops and tests a system for vibrating neural implant floating arrays during insertion to reduce insertion force, dimpling, tissue damage, and bleeding. The approach will allow precise insertion of electrode shanks into shallow cortical layers.

Autonomously-activating bioluminescent reporters to enable continuous, real-time, non- invasive brain cell imaging Project Summary This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project proposes to develop a set of genetically encoded, self-exciting bioluminescent (autobioluminescent) optical imaging reporters that will enable continuous neuron and astrocyte specific imaging