How the brain represents spatial knowledge and navigation.
Spatial and nonspatial knowledge
This study looks at how both people and animals find their way around using mental maps, focusing on how our brains help us navigate, which could help those who struggle with navigation due to cognitive challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11030237 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how humans and animals navigate their environments using mental representations known as cognitive maps. It explores the neural mechanisms in the brain, particularly in regions like the hippocampal formation and retrosplenial complex, that are crucial for spatial navigation and other cognitive functions. By examining how these cognitive maps are formed and represented, the study aims to fill gaps in our understanding of spatial knowledge and its distortions. Patients may benefit from insights into how navigation difficulties relate to cognitive impairments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing cognitive decline or memory issues, particularly those diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
Not a fit: Patients with intact cognitive functions and no issues related to navigation or memory may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for helping patients with navigation difficulties, particularly those with cognitive impairments like Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding cognitive maps in animal models, but this study aims to extend those findings to human cognition, making it a novel exploration.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Epstein, Russell a — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Epstein, Russell a
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.