Understanding how a specific brain area affects social behavior in humans
Official title: The causal role of the medial prefrontal cortex in human social cognition
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-11047820 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a part of the brain called the medial prefrontal cortex affects how we understand and interact with others, especially in people with autism, by using brain scans and behavior tests to see how changes in this area impact social skills.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $751,897 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH136198-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11047820 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include adults aged 21 and older with social cognition disorders or those who have experienced brain lesions affecting the MPFC.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have social cognition disorders or brain lesions affecting the MPFC may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC) in social cognition, particularly how it influences social behavior in healthy individuals and those with conditions like autism. By using advanced neuroimaging techniques and behavioral assessments, the study aims to identify the causal relationships between the MPFC and other brain regions involved in social interactions. Participants will undergo evaluations that include brain imaging and behavioral tests to better understand how damage to the MPFC affects social cognitive abilities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for social cognition disorders such as autism.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain regions involved in social cognition, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kliemann, Dorit — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Kliemann, Dorit
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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.