How the cerebellum supports sequence memory and language
Investigation of cerebellar involvement in cognitive sequencing
This project looks at how people with cerebellar ataxia use their cerebellum when remembering sequences for memory and language, using brain scans.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11172530 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you join, you'll do memory and language tasks while researchers record your brain activity using MRI. They will compare people with cerebellar ataxia to people without it to see how the cerebellum and brainstem respond when learning sequences and when sequences are broken. The team will focus on the inferior olive, cerebellum, and connections to frontal and temporal brain areas, using both functional and structural imaging. Results aim to explain why some people with cerebellar degeneration have trouble with sequencing in working memory and language.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants are adults with diagnosed cerebellar ataxia or cerebellar degeneration who can undergo MRI and perform basic memory and language tasks.
Not a fit: People without cerebellar disease, those who cannot have an MRI, or whose problems are unrelated to sequencing may not directly benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could clarify why cerebellar disease affects thinking and point to targets for rehabilitation or cognitive therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous brain imaging studies have shown cerebellar activity in working memory and language, but testing the cerebellum's specific role in sequence learning and prediction is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Desmond, John E — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Desmond, John E
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.