eMB: Leveraging artificial intelligence velocimetry to solve mysteries of cerebrospinal fluid flow in the brain

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $299,999 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

The brain circulates cerebrospinal fluid to clear metabolic waste, but the circulation system is altered with aging, stroke, and high blood pressure, and its failure is linked to Alzheimer's disease. Yet, there is still much scientists do not know about how this brain-cleaning system works because it is currently impossible to measure fluid flow deep inside living brains. This knowledge gap makes it difficult to propose potential interventions to rehabilitate or prevent damage caused when the system does not function properly. The project will use a newly developed method, artificial intelligence velocimetry, to infer measure cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) speeds deep inside the brain, answering crucial questions about how the brain clears metabolic waste in a healthy state and with high blood pressure. Because artificial intelligence velocimetry is a new method, the project will also carefully test how accurate the inferences are to ensure the results can be trusted. Understanding how this brain cleaning system works could lead to new ways to prevent or treat brain diseases and improve how medicines are delivered to the brain. This project could also benefit other areas of science where fluids move through complex spaces, like the lungs or kidneys. In addition to the scientific goals, this project will train graduate students, create educational videos to engage the public, and offer hands-on engineering experiences to high school students. This research will not only answer imp

Key facts

NSF award ID
2527212
Awardee
University of Rochester (NY)
SAM.gov UEI
F27KDXZMF9Y8
PI
Kimberly A Boster
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning Theory, Biotechnology
Estimated total
$299,999
Funds obligated
$299,999
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
09/01/2025 → 08/31/2028