How motivation affects movement in the brain
Official title: Neural Mechanisms of Motivated Movement
Funded at Carnegie-Mellon University · NIH-11045764 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how motivation affects our ability to move and perform tasks, like in sports, by exploring the role of a brain chemical called dopamine, which could help us find better ways to improve movement skills for people who struggle with motivation or movement issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Carnegie-Mellon University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $319,159 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS129098-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11045764 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with movement disorders or those experiencing motivational issues affecting their physical performance.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any movement-related conditions or motivational challenges may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the neural mechanisms that influence how motivation impacts movement performance. By examining the role of dopamine in the brain, the study aims to understand how varying levels of motivation can enhance or hinder motor skills, such as in high-pressure situations like sports. The researchers will conduct experiments to analyze how dopamine interacts with neurons in the motor cortex, potentially leading to insights on improving movement control. This work could have implications for treating conditions related to movement and motivation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing motor performance in individuals with movement disorders or those facing motivational challenges.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of dopamine in motor control, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Carnegie-Mellon University
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chase, Steven M — Carnegie-Mellon University
- Study coordinator: Chase, Steven M
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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.