Investigating the thalamus's role in schizophrenia and cognitive function
Research and mentoring on cognitive neuroscience and high-field MRI of the thalamus in schizophrenia
This study is looking at how a part of the brain called the thalamus works in people with schizophrenia, to better understand its role in thinking and learning, and to help improve treatments for cognitive challenges related to the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10908599 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the thalamus, a key brain structure, is connected and functions in individuals with schizophrenia. By using advanced neuroimaging techniques, the study aims to explore the thalamic connectivity and its impact on cognitive abilities in psychotic disorders. The principal investigator will also mentor trainees in this field, enhancing the research community's knowledge and skills related to cognitive neuroscience and psychosis. The goal is to bridge the gap between basic neuroscience findings and their application to treatment strategies for cognitive impairments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia who experience cognitive impairments.
Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of schizophrenia or those who do not experience cognitive disturbances may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and potential treatment targets for cognitive impairments associated with schizophrenia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding thalamic connectivity in schizophrenia, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, United States
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Woodward, Neil D. — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Woodward, Neil D.
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 below.