How brain networks help us learn from rewards
Official title: Functional architecture of striatal networks in cue-reward learning
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-10973190 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our brains learn from rewards and make decisions, especially how we move from thinking about our choices to doing things automatically, and it's designed to help people who struggle with learning and motivation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $507,484 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH129370-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10973190 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing difficulties with learning, motivation, or cognitive functions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable cognitive functions and no learning or motivational impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the brain's mesocorticostriatal network, which plays a crucial role in how we learn from rewards and make decisions. It focuses on understanding the transition from goal-directed actions to automatic behaviors as learning progresses. By using innovative techniques, the study aims to explore how different brain circuits communicate during this learning process, particularly how information flows through specific pathways in the brain. This could provide insights into conditions where learning and motivation are impaired.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for disorders related to learning and motivation, such as addiction or depression.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain networks related to learning, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Saunders, Benjamin Thomas — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Saunders, Benjamin Thomas
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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.