Understanding brain circuit interactions in mice related to psychosis

Interactions between prefrontal and insula circuits during normal and disrupted state representation processes in mice

NIH-funded research University of Minnesota · NIH-11109960

This study is looking at how changes in certain brain receptors affect communication between two important areas of the brain in mice, which could help us understand learning and decision-making, especially for people experiencing early signs of psychosis, and might lead to new ways to help improve thinking skills in those individuals.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Minnesota NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11109960 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how disruptions in NMDA receptors affect communication between the medial prefrontal cortex and the insular cortex in mice. By using advanced genetic techniques like CRISPR/Cas9, the study aims to manipulate these receptors to observe changes in brain activity and behavior. The findings could provide insights into how these brain regions work together during learning and decision-making processes, particularly in the context of early psychosis. This research may help identify potential therapeutic targets for improving cognitive control in affected individuals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing early psychosis or related cognitive impairments.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have cognitive impairments or psychosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for cognitive impairments associated with psychosis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain circuit interactions in animal models, suggesting potential for breakthroughs in this area.

Where this research is happening

Minneapolis, 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.