Investigating how the pulvinar region of the brain controls sensory processes.
Official title: Pulvinar cellular and network dynamics in cognitive control of sensory processes.
Funded at Princeton University · NIH-11079566 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a part of the brain called the pulvinar helps us control what we see and pay attention to, using animal models to learn more about how this works in both healthy brains and those with issues, which could eventually help us understand similar processes in humans.
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) | $474,847 |
| NIH project number | 5P50MH132642-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11079566 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 impairments or sensory processing disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with purely physical health issues unrelated to cognitive function or sensory processing may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the pulvinar, a higher order thalamic nucleus, in cognitive control of sensory processes. By studying the interactions between the pulvinar and early visual cortical areas in animal models, researchers aim to uncover how cognitive control influences brain circuit dynamics. The project utilizes advanced techniques such as precise electrode placement to record neural activity, providing insights into both healthy and diseased brain functionality. The findings could help translate animal model results to human conditions, enhancing our understanding of cognitive processes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for cognitive disorders by enhancing our understanding of sensory processing in the brain.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding thalamic functions in animal models, suggesting potential for success in translating these findings to human applications.
Where this research is happening
-
Princeton University
Princeton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Usrey, W Martin — Princeton University
- Study coordinator: Usrey, W Martin
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.