How the brain processes speech over time and structure

Dynamic temporal integration of speech structure in the human brain

NIH-funded research University of Rochester · NIH-11077286

This study is looking at how our brains understand speech sounds, especially whether we focus more on when sounds happen or what they are made of, and it's aimed at helping people with hearing difficulties better understand speech.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Rochester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project IDNIH-11077286 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the human brain integrates speech sounds, focusing on whether this integration is based on the timing of sounds or their structural components, like phonemes. By examining neural activity in the auditory cortex, the study aims to determine if there is a transition from processing sounds based on time to processing them based on their abstract structures. The researchers will use advanced computational models to analyze these processes and understand how auditory deficits may affect speech perception. This work could lead to better insights into auditory disorders and improve treatment strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing auditory processing difficulties or related neurological disorders.

Not a fit: Patients with normal auditory processing abilities may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of speech perception and lead to improved interventions for individuals with auditory processing disorders.

How similar studies have performed: While the integration of time and structure in speech processing is a relatively novel area of investigation, previous studies have shown promising results in understanding auditory processing through computational modeling.

Where this research is happening

Rochester, 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 auditory diseaseauditory disorder
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.