# Role of interneurons in brain tissue oxygen regulation

> **NIH NS R01** · ENDEAVOR HEALTH CLINICAL OPERATIONS · 2026 · $410,000

## Abstract

The regulation of oxygen in brain tissue is a fundamental question in neuroscience and
medicine, as it is crucial for maintaining optimal brain function. GABAergic interneurons, which
provide inhibitory signals in the cerebral cortex, have been found to not only connect with other
neurons but also with arterioles, enabling them to control network activity and vasomotion to
regulate blood delivery within the brain. However, the specific mechanisms by which
interneurons contribute to local oxygen homeostasis remain unclear. Building upon our
published and preliminary data, we propose that interneurons, utilizing their dual
neurotransmission function, play a primary role in regulating both brain tissue oxygen (PO2)
levels and BOLD fMRI responses. To investigate this hypothesis, we have designed a
comprehensive study comprising three specific aims. In Specific Aim 1, we will determine the
role of GABA in the magnitude and direction of PO2 responses. Specific Aim 2 focuses on
investigating the role of the dual neurotransmission system in PO2 responses. In Specific Aim 3,
we will investigate how the absence of excitatory activity in pyramidal cells affects oxygen
responses. The proposed studies on neuronal regulation of oxygen in brain tissue hold broad
implications for understanding the relationship between neuronal activity and oxygenation. They
have significant relevance to both healthy brain functioning and conditions involving vascular
dysfunction. By elucidating the mechanisms underlying brain tissue oxygen regulation, these
investigations will also offer insights into epileptic and sub-convulsive states. Additionally,
improving our fundamental understanding of neuronal tissue oxygen regulation has the potential
to enhance neuroimaging methods, such as fMRI, leading to more accurate interpretations of
brain activity and function.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 11260176
- **Project number:** 5R01NS107383-07
- **Recipient organization:** ENDEAVOR HEALTH CLINICAL OPERATIONS
- **Principal Investigator:** Daniil  Aksenov
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NS
- **Fiscal year:** 2026
- **Award amount:** $410,000
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2018-08-01T00:00:00 → 2029-12-31T00:00:00

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/11260176

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 11260176, Role of interneurons in brain tissue oxygen regulation (5R01NS107383-07). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-19 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/11260176. Licensed CC0.

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