Understanding Brain Networks for Senses and Thinking
CRCNS: Dynamics of thalamocortical networks during sensory discrimination
This project explores how different parts of the brain work together to help us sense the world and think, which could help us understand conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11118945 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our brains rely on complex networks, called thalamocortical networks, for basic sensory processing and important cognitive functions like attention and memory. When these networks don't work correctly, it can contribute to symptoms seen in various neurological and psychiatric disorders, including Alzheimer's disease. This project uses advanced imaging techniques to observe brain activity in animals during sensory tasks, helping us learn how these different brain regions interact. By simulating impairments in specific brain areas, we aim to uncover their roles in processing information and how these interactions develop as new skills are learned. This foundational knowledge is crucial for understanding the underlying causes of brain disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with neurological or psychiatric disorders, particularly those affecting sensory processing, attention, perception, or memory, might eventually benefit from this foundational knowledge.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are unrelated to thalamocortical network function or basic sensory and cognitive processing may not directly benefit from this specific foundational research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of how brain networks contribute to conditions like Alzheimer's disease, potentially guiding future treatments.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific dynamics of these networks during everyday tasks are poorly understood, other basic neuroscience efforts have successfully used animal models to understand human brain function.
Where this research is happening
East Lansing, United States
- Michigan State University — East Lansing, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Reimers, Mark Allan — Michigan State University
- Study coordinator: Reimers, Mark Allan
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.