How the brain processes sounds and actions during learning

Cortical and subcortical dynamics in the central auditory system across learning and overtraining

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10998291

This study looks at how animals learn to connect sounds with rewards and how their brains change as they practice, helping us understand how our hearing works and how experiences shape it.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10998291 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the auditory system in animals adapts to sound associations linked to rewards through learning. It focuses on the auditory cortex and its interactions with subcortical regions, examining how these areas change in response to training and overtraining. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to understand the dynamics of neural plasticity and how sound-action associations are formed and stored in the brain. The findings could provide insights into how auditory processing is affected by experience and behavior.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals experiencing hearing loss or auditory processing issues.

Not a fit: Patients with normal hearing and no auditory processing concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment of hearing loss and auditory processing disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding auditory processing and neural plasticity, indicating that this approach has a solid foundation.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.