Exploring brain networks to improve awareness in patients with disorders of consciousness
Mapping neural targets and advancing neuromodulation techniques for disorders of consciousness
This study is exploring how a gentle brain stimulation technique might help people who can’t fully communicate due to disorders of consciousness, by looking at how their brains respond to sounds and using eye tracking to understand their experiences better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11075533 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how non-invasive neurostimulation can help restore conscious perception in individuals with disorders of consciousness. By using advanced imaging techniques like functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), the study aims to map brain networks involved in auditory perception without requiring patients to explicitly report their experiences. The research also employs machine learning models to analyze eye tracking data, which may provide insights into how patients perceive sounds even when they cannot communicate. The ultimate goal is to enhance our understanding of consciousness and improve diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for affected individuals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with disorders of consciousness, such as those in a coma or vegetative state, who may have some level of auditory perception.
Not a fit: Patients with fully intact consciousness or those who do not have any auditory processing capabilities may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new methods for identifying and potentially restoring awareness in patients who are unable to communicate.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using neurostimulation and brain mapping techniques to enhance understanding of consciousness, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Aerts, Shanae — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Aerts, Shanae
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.