Understanding how a brain circuit controls movement and behavior
Novel Role of a Ventral Striatal Circuit in Motor Control
This study is looking at how a particular part of the brain helps control movements and habits, like grooming, to better understand motor control challenges in people with autism, with the hope of finding new ways to help manage these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10929979 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific brain circuit in the striatum, which is crucial for controlling motor functions and behaviors. By studying how this circuit influences repetitive actions, such as grooming, the research aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that lead to motor control issues often seen in conditions like autism. The approach involves examining the activity of certain neurons in the brain to understand their impact on behavior. Insights gained could help in developing new strategies for managing motor control abnormalities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with autism spectrum disorder or similar conditions that exhibit repetitive motor behaviors.
Not a fit: Patients without motor control issues or those not affected by neurological or psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for individuals with motor control issues related to neurological and psychiatric conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain circuits related to motor control, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ma, Minghong — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Ma, Minghong
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.