How brain cells communicate to improve decision-making and learning.
Official title: Neuron-astrocyte mechanisms of norepinephrine in goal-directed learning
Funded at Massachusetts Institute of Technology · NIH-11036274 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a brain chemical called norepinephrine affects how we make decisions and learn by exploring how different brain cells work together, and it's designed for anyone interested in understanding the science behind how we adapt our behavior based on rewards and uncertainties.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $550,982 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH133066-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11036274 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing difficulties with learning or decision-making, particularly those with neurological or psychological conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable cognitive function and no history of learning or decision-making disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter, influences decision-making and learning through interactions between neurons and astrocytes, a type of brain cell. By examining how these cells communicate during tasks that require balancing exploration and exploitation, the study aims to uncover the biological mechanisms that support effective learning strategies. The research employs advanced techniques to observe brain activity and cellular responses in real-time, providing insights into how the brain optimizes behavior based on rewards and uncertainties.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatments for conditions that affect learning and decision-making, such as anxiety and depression.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of neurotransmitters and glial cells in learning, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sur, Mriganka — Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Sur, Mriganka
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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.