How the brain plans ahead to make flexible choices
Neuronal mechanisms of model-based learning
This project looks at how brain regions that build mental maps and plan ahead help people make flexible choices, which is relevant to conditions like compulsive behavior and anxiety.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Berkeley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11143633 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers propose that the hippocampus builds a cognitive map of tasks while the orbitofrontal cortex uses that map to predict rewards and guide planning. They will combine neural recordings and manipulations with computational models to trace how these brain areas interact to support model-based (deliberative) learning. Experiments will link these circuit mechanisms to behaviors that become inflexible in conditions such as compulsions and anxiety. The team aims to translate those circuit insights into targets that could one day change how we treat maladaptive learning.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with compulsive behaviors (for example, obsessive-compulsive disorder) or anxiety disorders, along with healthy volunteers for comparison, would be most relevant.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to decision-making or learning processes (for example purely sensory or motor disorders) may not receive direct benefit from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to new targets and strategies to restore flexible decision-making in people with compulsive or anxiety-related symptoms.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has well-mapped circuits for model-free, habitual learning, but applying similar circuit and computational approaches to model-based planning is newer and less established.
Where this research is happening
Berkeley, United States
- University of California Berkeley — Berkeley, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wallis, Joni D — University of California Berkeley
- Study coordinator: Wallis, Joni D
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.