The goal of the DI-NIN Fund is to support new and innovative research and to strengthen collaboration between the two institutes. By sharing their knowledge in neuroscience, they hope to make important scientific discoveries that benefit both science and society.
These selected projects show how the two institutes work together to answer important questions about the brain, behavior, and cognition. Researchers who did not receive funding are encouraged to use their project results to apply for a new grant or to improve their application and submit it to an external funding organization.Here is an overview of the five projects:
Cracking the predictive code of the visual brain
Leads: Floris de Lange (DI) & Christiaan Levelt (NIN)
This project investigates how the brain processes predictions and errors in the visual cortex, using advanced techniques in both mice and humans. The research aims to reveal how experience shapes predictive mechanisms and how these are implemented across cortical layers and cell types.
The jury praised this project for its innovative approach and strong theoretical foundations. While ambitious, the collaboration between the two labs provides the necessary expertise for success. The project is likely to yield compelling preliminary data that could secure additional funding.
Restoring neuronal energy: microglia's role in mitochondrial therapy
Leads: Nael Nadif Kasri (DI) & Christian Lohmann (NIN)
This study looks at how microglia, specialised immune cells in the brain, can help repair damaged nerve cells by transferring mitochondria. The research focuses on neurodevelopmental disorders like Leigh syndrome. By using advanced stem cell and organoid models, the scientists aim to develop a new treatment approach.
The project has been praised for its innovative use of these advanced models and its potential to transform treatments for both neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. The collaboration benefits from the outstanding expertise of both research teams.
Advanced MRI-profiling of the human cerebellum in health and disease
Leads: Bart van de Warrenburg (DI), Wietske van der Zwaag & Chris I. de Zeeuw (NIN)
This project develops biomarkers for cerebellar diseases using ultra-high field MRI. By identifying morphological and microstructural changes, the researchers aim to improve diagnosis and monitoring of cerebellar disorders.
The proposal stood out for its focus on a critical yet underexplored area of neuroscience. The team’s complementary expertise and innovative approach make this project a strong candidate for follow-up funding.
The brain’s spotlight: the role of selective attention in transforming visual perception
Leads: Ilona Bloem, Serge Dumoulin (NIN) & Janneke Jehee (DI)
Investigating the dynamic nature of selective attention, this project combines advanced computational methods to uncover how attention fluctuates and transforms visual perception in real-time.
The proposal’s ambitious integration of population-receptive-field modeling and Bayesian decoding impressed the reviewers. While technically challenging, the methodology has the potential to make a significant impact on computational neuroscience.
Optimized gene therapy for peripheral neuropathy
Leads: Maria Landinez, Fred de Winter, Joost Verhaagen (NIN) & Erik Storkebaum (DI)
Summary: Focused on Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, this study aims to refine gene therapy techniques to target motor and sensory neurons effectively. By addressing current bottlenecks, the project seeks to pave the way for clinical translation.
Jury Comments: Although high-risk, the project offers substantial potential rewards, particularly for patients. The collaboration’s complementary expertise enhances the feasibility of this innovative therapeutic approach.
A Bright Future for Neuroscience Research
The first selections of projects for the DI-NIN Fund demonstrates the power of this collaboration, combining technical innovation with clinical relevance. The supported projects not only address fundamental questions in neuroscience but also lay the groundwork for therapies that could change lives.
Both institutes are committed to building on this success, with plans for a second funding round in two years, which also provides an opportunity for applications that did not receive funding this round. More information about the DI-NIN fund can be found here.