How brain cells interact to influence behavior and decision-making
Official title: Neuron-Glial Interactions in Basal Ganglia Circuitry
Funded at Massachusetts Institute of Technology · NIH-11130671 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how brain cells called astrocytes work with dopamine neurons to help us make decisions and switch between different activities, using mice to see how these cells communicate during tasks.
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 | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $725,422 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH136275-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11130671 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with cognitive control issues or behavioral disorders linked to dopamine dysregulation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with purely structural brain injuries unrelated to dopamine signaling or astrocyte function may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between astrocytes, a type of brain cell, and dopamine neurons in the basal ganglia, which are crucial for decision-making and behavior. By studying how these cells communicate and influence each other, the research aims to understand their role in transitioning between different behavioral states, such as engagement and disengagement in tasks. The approach involves observing the activity of these cells during decision-making tasks in mice, focusing on how changes in astrocyte activity correlate with dopamine signaling. This could provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of cognitive control and behavioral flexibility.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating cognitive and behavioral disorders by targeting astrocyte-dopamine interactions.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of astrocytes in brain function, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Graybiel, Ann M — Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Graybiel, Ann M
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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.