How the pretectum affects visual processing in the brain

The Influence of the Pretectum on the Pulvinar Nucleus

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE · NIH-10994999

This study is looking at how a specific part of the brain helps us see better when we move our eyes and body, using mice to learn more about how these brain areas work together to process what we see in real-time.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LOUISVILLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10994999 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how signals from the pretectum, a part of the brain, influence visual processing in the pulvinar nucleus, particularly during eye and body movements. Using advanced techniques like viral tracing and optogenetics, the study aims to understand the connections and interactions between these brain regions in mice. By examining the structure and function of neurons involved in visual processing, the research seeks to uncover how visual signals are modified in real-time as the body moves. This could provide insights into the neural mechanisms underlying active vision.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals experiencing visual processing disorders or conditions affecting eye movement coordination.

Not a fit: Patients with stable visual processing and no issues related to eye or body movement coordination may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment of visual disorders related to eye and body movement coordination.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of manipulating pretectum-pulvinar interactions is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding visual processing in the brain.

Where this research is happening

LOUISVILLE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.