How the brain predicts words during language understanding
The neural basis of language comprehension: Insights from spatiotemporal imaging
This project uses MEG, EEG and MRI brain scans to see how adults with autism predict upcoming words when they listen to or read language.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11258414 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you join, researchers will record your brain activity with MEG, EEG and fMRI while you listen to or read sentences that create expectations about upcoming words. They will compare the timing and location of these brain signals in adults with autism and in neurotypical adults to look for differences in predictive processing. The team will also run computer simulations based on predictive coding to link the brain measurements to specific processing steps. The goal is to better understand why language and social communication can be challenging for some people with autism.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults (21+) diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder who can tolerate and travel to in-person MEG/EEG/fMRI sessions are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: Children under 21, people who cannot undergo MRI/MEG/EEG (for example due to metal implants, severe claustrophobia, or inability to tolerate the tests), or those unable to travel to Boston are unlikely to be eligible or benefit directly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could clarify brain mechanisms behind language and communication difficulties in autism and point toward better diagnostics or supportive strategies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous imaging work has shown prediction-related brain signals in neurotypical adults, but combining MEG/EEG/fMRI with predictive-coding models in adults with autism is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kuperberg, Gina R — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Kuperberg, Gina R
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.