How learning and internal brain states shape decision-making
Learning as a window into how internal states influence decision-making
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · COLUMBIA UNIV NEW YORK MORNINGSIDE · NIH-11141720
This project looks at how learning changes internal brain states that guide decisions, with the goal of helping people with autism who have differences in decision-making.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | COLUMBIA UNIV NEW YORK MORNINGSIDE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11141720 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From my point of view, researchers will train animals to report the position of a visual pattern and watch how their choices and brain activity change as they learn. They will compare animals that are new to the task with experts, and also track short-term shifts when rewards change during a session. The team will record neural signals across brain areas and use detailed video and behavioral analyses to identify engaged versus disengaged internal states. Findings aim to reveal circuit-level changes that could relate to decision-making differences seen in autism.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Although the work is done in animals, the people this research ultimately aims to help are individuals with autism who experience challenges or differences in decision-making and sensory-guided choices.
Not a fit: Because this is preclinical animal research, it will not provide direct treatments or immediate clinical benefits to patients right now.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal brain circuit changes that explain decision-making differences and point to new targets for therapies or support strategies for people with autism.
How similar studies have performed: Prior animal studies have mapped circuits for learning and decision-making, but applying those findings specifically to autism-related differences remains at an early and developing stage.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- COLUMBIA UNIV NEW YORK MORNINGSIDE — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CHURCHLAND, ANNE KATHRYN — COLUMBIA UNIV NEW YORK MORNINGSIDE
- Study coordinator: CHURCHLAND, ANNE KATHRYN
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: Autistic Disorder