How attention affects navigation using sound
Auditory-based navigation: attentional shifts rapidly modulate hippocampal codes
['FUNDING_R01'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11056050
This study looks at how the brain changes as we age or deal with conditions like Alzheimer's, using bats to learn about how we pay attention while navigating, with the hope of finding ways to help people who struggle with attention and navigation.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11056050 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain's hippocampus, which is crucial for memory and navigation, changes with age and neurological disorders like Alzheimer's disease. By studying bats that use echolocation, the researchers aim to understand how attention shifts influence navigation in both animals and humans. The project focuses on the neural mechanisms that allow for rapid changes in attention while navigating, which could provide insights into improving navigation skills in individuals with cognitive impairments. The findings may help develop new strategies for assisting those with attention and navigation difficulties.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing cognitive decline, particularly those with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
Not a fit: Patients with intact cognitive function and no navigation difficulties may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved navigation strategies for patients with Alzheimer's and other cognitive impairments.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using animal models to understand cognitive processes, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES
- JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY — BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MOSS, CYNTHIA F — JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: MOSS, CYNTHIA F
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.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease