Exploring how the brain controls movement using advanced simulations
Official title: Understanding Sensorimotor Control Through Realistic Neuro-Biomechanical Simulation
Funded at Harvard University · NIH-10869524 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how the brain helps us move our bodies in tricky situations by using virtual rats to mimic real-life movements, and the goal is to learn more about how this knowledge can help people with movement challenges due to neurological conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | September 5, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $2,947,975 |
| NIH project number | 1U01NS136507-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10869524 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit include individuals with neurological disorders that impact motor control, such as Parkinson's disease or stroke survivors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with purely psychological conditions unrelated to motor control may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex ways in which the brain coordinates muscles and joints to produce movement in unpredictable environments. By utilizing advanced simulations of 'virtual rats' that mimic biological brains and bodies, the study aims to understand sensorimotor control in a more realistic context. The approach embraces the complexity of real-life movement rather than simplifying it, allowing for insights into brain organization and higher-level cognitive functions. Patients may benefit from findings that enhance our understanding of motor control and its implications for various neurological conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for conditions affecting movement and coordination.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using virtual models is innovative, similar research has shown promise in understanding motor control through computational models.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard University
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Olveczky, Bence P — Harvard University
- Study coordinator: Olveczky, Bence P
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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.