How certain brain neurons influence decision making over time
Official title: Functions of locus coeruleus norepinephrine neurons in decision making across multiple timescales
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10656752 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells in mice help them make decisions based on rewards and feedback, which could help us understand how decision-making works in people too.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $2,268,533 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1NS131984-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10656752 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals with conditions affecting decision-making, such as anxiety or mood disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurological disorders unrelated to decision-making processes may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of norepinephrine neurons in the locus coeruleus and their impact on decision-making processes in mice. By examining how these neurons affect learning from rewards and adapting motor responses based on sensory feedback, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind flexible decision making. The researchers will manipulate the activity of these neurons while the mice perform various tasks, allowing them to link neuronal activity to specific behaviors. This approach could provide insights into how similar processes might function in humans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new understanding of decision-making processes that may inform treatments for psychiatric conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of norepinephrine in decision making, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'connor, Daniel Hans — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: O'connor, Daniel Hans
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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.