How humans create mental maps of 3D spaces from visual information
From visual snapshots to allocentric representations of a 3D world
['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-10901351
This study is looking at how our brains create mental maps of three-dimensional spaces just by looking at them, without needing to explore them physically, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how we navigate and perceive our surroundings.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10901351 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how humans form mental maps of three-dimensional spaces using visual information rather than physical exploration. By utilizing functional MRI (fMRI), the study aims to identify brain regions involved in creating these allocentric maps from afar. The research is divided into two main aims: one focuses on understanding the relationship between visual and navigable spaces, while the other emphasizes ecological validity in real-world scenarios. This approach could provide insights into how different brain systems contribute to spatial awareness and navigation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with cognitive impairments related to spatial awareness, such as those with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia.
Not a fit: Patients with no cognitive impairments or those who do not have conditions affecting spatial navigation may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of spatial cognition, potentially leading to improved therapies for conditions affecting navigation and memory.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research in spatial neuroscience has shown promising results in understanding allocentric mapping, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA — PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SHAFER-SKELTON, ANNA — UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
- Study coordinator: SHAFER-SKELTON, ANNA
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 below.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome