Investigating how the brain coordinates movement and sensory input in free-moving mice
Official title: Wirelessly recording and manipulating neural activity to study the sensorimotor dynamics of free behavior
Funded at Emory University · NIH-10878052 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the brain helps mice move and sense their surroundings in a natural way, using special technology to see their movements and brain activity at the same time, which could help us understand how our brains control everyday actions and learning.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | August 16, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $339,029 |
| NIH project number | 1R34NS137017-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10878052 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals interested in the underlying mechanisms of movement and sensory processing, particularly those with neurological conditions affecting these functions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to movement or sensory processing may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the brain coordinates body movements and sensory experiences in a natural setting. By using advanced technologies, the researchers will track the movements of mice in three dimensions while simultaneously recording neural activity from multiple brain areas. This approach allows for a more holistic view of how different parts of the brain work together to control complex behaviors, rather than relying on traditional methods that restrict movement. The study aims to provide insights into the neural dynamics that underlie everyday actions and learning processes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of brain function and inform treatments for movement disorders and other neurological conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using similar technologies has shown promise in understanding brain-behavior relationships, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rodgers, Christopher — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Rodgers, Christopher
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.