How brain chemicals affect visual perception and decision-making

Neuromodulation in visual cortex

NIH-funded research Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-10834248

This study is looking at how certain brain chemicals help us see things and make choices, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how our brains work when we look at and respond to what we see.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10834248 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of specific brain chemicals, acetylcholine and norepinephrine, in how we perceive visual information and make decisions. Using advanced techniques, the study will measure changes in these neurotransmitters in the visual cortex of awake subjects during tasks that require visual detection. By understanding how these chemicals influence our perception and decision-making processes, the research aims to lay the groundwork for future studies that could explore cognitive functions like attention and memory.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals with conditions affecting attention, perception, or decision-making processes.

Not a fit: Patients with neurological disorders that severely impair cognitive function may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into how to enhance cognitive functions related to perception and decision-making.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of neurotransmitters in cognitive functions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.