Understanding how brain activity affects human perception

The role of dynamical criticality in human perception

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-10845382

This study looks at how different sensory experiences affect our brain activity and how that influences what we notice or ignore, which could help people better understand and treat conditions that impact perception.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10845382 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how sensory stimuli interact with brain activity to influence conscious perception. It explores the dynamics of neuronal networks during different states, such as wakefulness and anesthesia, to determine why some stimuli are perceived while others are not. By examining the balance between stability and instability in neuronal dynamics, the study aims to identify the conditions under which sensory information can be consciously detected. Patients may benefit from insights that could improve understanding and treatment of conditions affecting perception.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with acquired brain injuries or those who have undergone anesthesia and are experiencing altered states of consciousness.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have any neurological conditions or those who are not undergoing anesthesia may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better methods for assessing and enhancing conscious perception in patients with brain injuries or those undergoing anesthesia.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding brain dynamics and perception, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acquired brain injury

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.