NIH-funded research R21 grant

Understanding how brain circuits control movement

Official title: The organization of cerebello-thalamo-cortical circuit in the motor system

Funded at University of Texas at Austin · NIH-11046679 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how different parts of the brain work together to help us move our bodies smoothly, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how our brain controls movement.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas at Austin
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Austin, United States)
Project startApril 1, 2024
Project endMarch 31, 2026
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$191,632
NIH project number5R21NS137118-02
Project IDNIH-11046679 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing motor control issues due to brain dysfunction or impairment.

Less likely to help

Patients with stable motor function and no neurological impairments may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex interactions between the cerebellum, thalamus, and cerebral cortex, which are crucial for controlling voluntary movements. By examining the unique properties of different types of neurons within these brain regions, the study aims to uncover how these circuits function and contribute to coordinated body movements. The approach involves analyzing both anatomical connections and the molecular characteristics of neuronal populations to gain a deeper understanding of their roles in motor control.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for conditions that affect movement and coordination.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding brain circuits related to movement, but this approach may provide novel insights into the molecular diversity of neuronal populations.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Texas at Austin
    Austin, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Nishiyama, Hiroshi — University of Texas at Austin
  • Study coordinator: Nishiyama, Hiroshi

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.