How the brain learns to connect sounds with rewards

Neural circuits for flexible audiomotor learning

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10992148

This study is looking at how the brain learns to connect sounds with rewards, especially for people with autism, to help improve their understanding of language and communication.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10992148 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the mammalian auditory system adapts to learn associations between sounds and rewards, particularly in the context of autism spectrum disorders. By exploring the distinct processes of acquiring and expressing auditory knowledge, the study aims to uncover the neural mechanisms involved in this learning. The researchers will use advanced techniques to observe how auditory experiences can influence behavior and improve understanding of language and communication in individuals with autism. This work could lead to new insights into how auditory stimuli can be used therapeutically.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with autism spectrum disorders who may benefit from improved auditory learning techniques.

Not a fit: Patients with auditory processing disorders unrelated to autism may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance therapeutic approaches for individuals with autism by improving their ability to learn from auditory experiences.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding auditory learning mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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 autism spectral disorderautism spectrum disorder
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.