Understanding Brain Networks for Navigation
Parietal Cortex Networks for Sensorimotor Processing During Navigation
['FUNDING_R37'] · HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL · NIH-11130470
This research explores how different parts of the brain work together to help us navigate and make decisions about where to go, which is important for understanding conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R37'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11130470 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our brains rely on complex networks to help us understand our surroundings and plan our movements. This project focuses on a key brain area called the posterior parietal cortex (PPC), which plays a central role in making navigation decisions. We are developing new tools to look closely at how the cells in this area connect, what types of cells are involved, and how these connections change when we learn. By understanding these basic mechanisms, we hope to uncover how the brain processes information for navigation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: While this foundational research does not involve direct patient participation, it is highly relevant to individuals experiencing difficulties with spatial navigation and decision-making, such as those with Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions do not involve issues with spatial navigation or decision-making may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a deeper understanding of why navigation abilities decline in conditions like Alzheimer's disease, potentially paving the way for new ways to help patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work has identified the posterior parietal cortex as crucial for navigation decisions, but the detailed mechanisms of how it performs these computations are still largely unknown.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HARVEY, CHRISTOPHER D — HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL
- Study coordinator: HARVEY, CHRISTOPHER 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.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease