Understanding how arousal affects behavior in complex situations
Representational dynamics for flexible learning in complex environments
This study is looking at how changes in our alertness affect how well we can adjust our actions, like following new safety rules during a pandemic, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding how our brain helps us adapt, especially for those with mental health challenges that make this harder.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10888258 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how fluctuations in arousal influence our ability to adapt our behavior in various contexts, such as adopting new safety measures during a pandemic. By studying the role of the locus coeruleus norepinephrine (LC/NE) system, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind behavioral flexibility. The approach includes measuring physiological responses like pupil diameter and brain activity to understand how these factors contribute to decision-making and behavior changes. The findings could lead to new therapeutic strategies for psychiatric disorders where behavioral flexibility is compromised.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with anxiety disorders or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) who experience challenges in adapting their behavior.
Not a fit: Patients with stable behavioral patterns and no history of psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for psychiatric disorders that affect behavioral flexibility.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of arousal in behavior, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Providence, United States
- Brown University — Providence, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nassar, Matthew — Brown University
- Study coordinator: Nassar, Matthew
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.