Understanding how brain circuits cause auditory hallucinations in schizophrenia
Empirical validation of a cerebellar-cortical hallucination circuit
This study is looking at how certain parts of the brain work when people with schizophrenia hear things that aren't there, and it hopes to find ways to help improve their treatment by understanding these brain activities better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mclean Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Belmont, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10976442 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the brain circuits involved in auditory hallucinations, particularly in individuals with schizophrenia. By utilizing advanced neuroimaging techniques, the study aims to identify specific brain regions that are activated during these hallucinations. The goal is to understand the dysfunction in these circuits, which could lead to targeted neuromodulation therapies. Patients may be monitored during episodes of hallucinations to gather data on brain activity, helping to establish a clearer link between brain function and psychiatric symptoms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia who experience auditory hallucinations.
Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of schizophrenia or those who do not experience auditory hallucinations may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches that specifically target the brain circuits responsible for auditory hallucinations, improving treatment options for patients with schizophrenia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in identifying brain circuit dysfunctions related to psychiatric symptoms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Belmont, United States
- Mclean Hospital — Belmont, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Halko, Mark a — Mclean Hospital
- Study coordinator: Halko, Mark a
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.