Investigating how the brain controls word order during speech

Syntactic control of lexical activation during speech production - Resubmission - 1

NIH-funded research New York University School of Medicine · NIH-10874542

This study is looking at how our brains put words together when we speak, which is really important for clear communication, and it aims to help people with language difficulties, like those with aphasia, by finding out more about how language works in the brain.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York University School of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10874542 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the neural mechanisms behind syntax, the rules that govern word order in language, which is crucial for effective communication. By using advanced techniques like electrocorticography (ECoG), the study aims to understand how the brain sequences words during speech production. This approach seeks to overcome previous limitations in isolating syntax in the brain, providing insights that could lead to better treatments for individuals with language disorders such as aphasia. The findings could enhance our understanding of language processing and its neural underpinnings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with aphasia or other speech production disorders.

Not a fit: Patients without any language disorders or those who do not experience difficulties in speech production may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies for individuals suffering from aphasia and other language disorders.

How similar studies have performed: While previous research has attempted to study syntax in the brain, this novel approach using ECoG has not been extensively tested, making it a potentially groundbreaking investigation.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.