Investigating how specific brain regions control cognitive functions in primates
Official title: Functions and thalamocortical interactions of macaque higher order thalamus in cognitive control
Funded at Princeton University · NIH-11079568 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how two parts of the brain help us pay attention and remember things, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how these brain areas work together during thinking tasks, which could help us learn more about conditions that affect our thinking.
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) | $487,861 |
| NIH project number | 5P50MH132642-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11079568 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with cognitive control deficits or related neurological conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with purely physical health issues unrelated to cognitive function may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the roles of two specific thalamic nuclei in cognitive control, particularly in relation to attention and working memory. By conducting lesion studies in both humans and non-human primates, the researchers aim to explore how these brain regions interact with associated cortical networks during cognitive tasks. The study will utilize advanced techniques to analyze the neural mechanisms involved in executive functioning and decision-making processes. The findings could provide insights into how cognitive functions are affected in various conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment of cognitive impairments related to attention and memory.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cognitive control through similar approaches, indicating a strong foundation for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Princeton University
Princeton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kastner, Sabine — Princeton University
- Study coordinator: Kastner, Sabine
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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.