Improving impulsivity by studying brain activity
Official title: Identifying and Targeting Physiological Assays of Circuit Engagement to Improve Impulsivity
Funded at Veterans Medical Research Fdn/san Diego · NIH-11080286 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how brain activity connects to impulsivity, which is when people struggle to control their immediate reactions instead of thinking about long-term goals, and it aims to find better treatments for conditions like ADHD and substance abuse that can help those who deal with impulsivity.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Veterans Medical Research Fdn/san Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2021 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $304,938 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH123650-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080286 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates include individuals diagnosed with ADHD, substance use disorders, or other conditions characterized by impulsivity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without impulsivity-related disorders or those not exhibiting significant behavioral inhibition may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how brain activity relates to impulsivity, which is the inability to control immediate reactions in favor of long-term goals. It focuses on measuring different types of impulsivity, such as motor impulsivity and choice impulsivity, using behavioral tasks and electrophysiological methods. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to identify more effective treatments for conditions like ADHD and substance abuse disorders. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to better-targeted therapies for impulsivity-related issues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for individuals struggling with impulsivity and related disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using electrophysiological measures to understand impulsivity, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Veterans Medical Research Fdn/san Diego
San Diego, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ramanathan, Dhakshin — Veterans Medical Research Fdn/san Diego
- Study coordinator: Ramanathan, Dhakshin
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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.