Understanding how a brain region influences thinking and memory
Official title: Behavioral and mechanistic dissection of a cognitive thalamo-cortical network
Funded at Tufts University Boston · NIH-10813778 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how two important parts of the brain work together to help with attention and memory, especially in people with cognitive disorders like schizophrenia, to find new ways to improve their thinking and behavior.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | December 8, 2022 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $517,222 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH120118-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10813778 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing cognitive disorders, particularly those with attention deficits or schizophrenia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with purely physical health issues unrelated to cognitive function may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between the mediodorsal thalamus and the prefrontal cortex, which are crucial for cognitive functions such as attention and memory. By studying these brain regions, the research aims to uncover how they work together to enhance relevant cognitive activities while suppressing irrelevant ones. The approach involves testing specific hypotheses about how these brain areas communicate and influence behavior, particularly in the context of cognitive disorders like schizophrenia. Patients may benefit from insights gained about these mechanisms, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for cognitive disorders, enhancing memory and attention in affected patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding thalamic-cortical interactions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Tufts University Boston
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Halassa, Michael M — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Halassa, Michael M
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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.