Understanding how the brain functions remains one of the central challenges of modern science. In particular, observing neuronal activity in deep brain regions places stringent demands on imaging technologies: high spatial resolution, minimal invasiveness, and long-term applicability are difficult to combine with existing methods.

Funded by the European Innovation Council, the NEUROGATE project is developing a novel holographic endoscopic approach that addresses these limitations. At the core of the technology is a hair-thin multimode optical fibre that enables high-resolution imaging of neuronal activity in the living brain without causing significant damage to surrounding tissue. This makes chronic in vivo investigations in deep brain regions feasible.

NEUROGATE aims to monitor neuronal activity over extended periods in freely moving animal models. To this end, key technological components are being further developed, including bend-resilient optical fibres, precise holographic light modulation, and advanced brain–fibre interfaces. The combination of these elements enables stable, high-resolution imaging even under dynamic conditions, such as during behaviour, sensory processing, or cognitive tasks.

In addition to technological development, NEUROGATE pursues the clear goal of commercialising the holographic endoscope. By translating the technology into a market-ready instrument, the project seeks to open up new opportunities for biomedical research. In the long term, NEUROGATE will contribute to a deeper understanding of neuronal processes in both healthy and diseased brains and lay the foundation for future applications in research and medicine.