Mapping how the brain's visual areas are organized
CRCNS: A computational approach to map visual cortex organization in the human brain
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-11071861
This project uses brain scans and computer tools to map each person's visual brain areas to better link brain anatomy with vision.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11071861 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
If you took part, you'd get MRI brain scans and visual tests while researchers use computer algorithms to identify visual areas on your cortex. They will map boundaries like primary visual cortex and dozens of category-selective regions and measure anatomical features such as cortical thickness, myelination, and white-matter inputs. The team will build and validate automated methods to find these areas reliably in individual people so results can be compared across labs and ages. By combining large datasets, they aim to describe how visual map properties vary across the population and relate to visual abilities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults and children with normal or impaired vision who can undergo MRI and participate in visual testing would be suitable candidates.
Not a fit: People who cannot have MRI scans (for example, due to incompatible implants or severe claustrophobia) or who need immediate clinical intervention are unlikely to benefit directly from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Improved, individualized maps of visual brain areas could help diagnose, track, or tailor treatments and rehabilitation for visual disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Smaller studies have successfully mapped retinotopic and category-selective areas and linked map features to vision, but automated, population-level mapping is a newer and developing approach.
Where this research is happening
SEATTLE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON — SEATTLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BENSON, NOAH C — UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON
- Study coordinator: BENSON, NOAH C
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.