Investigating brain circuit dysfunction in schizophrenia.
Official title: Functional and behavioral dissection of higher order thalamocortical circuits in schizophrenia.
Funded at Princeton University · NIH-11079577 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain parts of the brain are connected and work during thinking tasks in people with schizophrenia, hoping to find new ways to help improve treatment for those affected by the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Princeton University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Princeton, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | April 3, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $437,500 |
| NIH project number | 5P50MH132642-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11079577 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia who may experience cognitive and behavioral challenges.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with schizophrenia who do not exhibit significant cognitive or behavioral symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how specific brain circuits, particularly in the thalamus, are affected in individuals with schizophrenia. By examining the mediodorsal nucleus and pulvinar circuits, the study aims to uncover the relationship between these brain areas and cognitive functions, as well as behavioral symptoms associated with schizophrenia. The research employs advanced imaging techniques to analyze brain connectivity and activation patterns during cognitive tasks, which may reveal critical insights into the underlying mechanisms of the disorder. Ultimately, this work seeks to identify potential targets for new interventions that could improve treatment outcomes for patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better-targeted therapies for schizophrenia, improving cognitive and behavioral outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain circuit dysfunction in schizophrenia, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Princeton University
Princeton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Woodward, Neil D. — Princeton University
- Study coordinator: Woodward, Neil D.
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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.