Understanding how brain circuits help us listen actively
Corticofugal Circuits for Active Listening
This study is looking at how certain brain cells help us hear and learn from sounds, especially those that might be important or dangerous, using mice to understand how this works, which could help us learn more about hearing problems in people, including those with dementia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10888327 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific neurons in the brain, known as cholinergic basal forebrain neurons, influence our ability to process sounds and learn from auditory experiences. By examining the responses of these neurons in mice, the study aims to uncover how they enhance our perception of important sounds, especially those that signal potential threats. The research employs advanced techniques to record neuronal activity in response to various auditory stimuli, providing insights into the brain's mechanisms for active listening and learning. This could lead to a better understanding of auditory processing in humans and how it may be affected in conditions like dementia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing auditory processing difficulties or cognitive impairments, such as those with dementia.
Not a fit: Patients with purely physical hearing impairments without cognitive involvement may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could improve our understanding of auditory processing and lead to new treatments for conditions that impair listening and learning.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding cholinergic modulation of auditory processing, suggesting that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Polley, Daniel B. — Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
- Study coordinator: Polley, Daniel B.
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.