Understanding how brain circuits process sounds

Hierarchical circuits in the ventral auditory pathway

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11089543

This study is looking at how certain brain circuits help us hear and understand sounds, and it's especially for people interested in how this might relate to conditions like ADHD and autism.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11089543 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the neural circuits in the brain that are responsible for processing auditory information, particularly focusing on how these circuits operate at different levels. Using advanced techniques, researchers will study the activity of neurons in the ventral auditory pathway of rhesus monkeys while they engage in listening tasks. The goal is to uncover how these circuits contribute to our ability to perceive sounds and language, which could have implications for understanding conditions like ADHD and autism.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with language acquisition challenges, such as those with ADHD or autism spectrum disorders.

Not a fit: Patients with purely physical hearing impairments unrelated to auditory processing or cognitive function may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for enhancing language skills and auditory processing in individuals with communication disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding auditory processing through similar methodologies, indicating that this approach is both relevant and potentially impactful.

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.
Conditions Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.