How the basal ganglia affect brain activity in decision making and movement in mice

Multiscale analysis of how the basal ganglia impact cortical processing in behaving mice

NIH-funded research Emory University · NIH-10634561

This study is looking at how a part of the brain called the basal ganglia helps control decision-making and movement in mice, which could help us understand more about how these processes work and what happens when things go wrong in certain brain conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEmory University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Atlanta, United States)
Project IDNIH-10634561 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the basal ganglia in influencing brain activity related to decision making and movement execution in mice. Using advanced techniques like optogenetics and genetically encoded sensors, the study aims to observe how signals from the basal ganglia affect the cerebral cortex during various tasks. By analyzing the interactions between these brain regions, researchers hope to fill critical gaps in our understanding of brain function and behavior. The findings could provide insights into how these processes are disrupted in certain neurological conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research would include individuals with neurological conditions affecting decision making and motor control, such as Parkinson's disease or Huntington's disease.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to basal ganglia dysfunction or those not experiencing decision-making or motor planning issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of brain disorders related to decision making and movement, potentially informing new treatment strategies.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this research is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in understanding the role of the basal ganglia in brain function.

Where this research is happening

Atlanta, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Basal Ganglia DiseasesBasal Ganglia Disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.