How the brain chooses actions
Testing hybrid theories of action-selection
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA · NIH-11306058
This work looks at how different brain systems cooperate to make choices, with the goal of helping people with compulsive behaviors, addictions, or eating disorders.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MINNEAPOLIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11306058 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project uses animal brain recordings and targeted brain control tools to learn how choices are generated by interacting brain systems. Scientists record groups of neurons while animals make decisions and use chemogenetic tools (DREADDs) to turn specific circuits up or down. They combine those data with computer models to test whether ‘‘hybrid’’ algorithms explain conflicts between planning and habits. The aim is to link those circuit computations to problems like compulsivity and addiction so better treatments can be developed in the future.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People living with compulsive disorders such as OCD, substance use disorders, or eating disorders would be the eventual patient groups most likely to benefit from follow-up clinical research.
Not a fit: Because this is laboratory-based animal research, people looking for immediate new treatments should not expect direct personal benefit from the current project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal brain circuit mechanisms behind compulsive or addictive behaviors and point to new targets for therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal studies using neural recordings and chemogenetic control have identified circuits for habits and planning, but applying and testing formal ‘‘hybrid’’ decision algorithms is a newer approach.
Where this research is happening
MINNEAPOLIS, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA — MINNEAPOLIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: REDISH, A DAVID — UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA
- Study coordinator: REDISH, A DAVID
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.