Understanding how brain signaling affects learning and behavior
Official title: Discrete Functions of Basal Forebrain Cholinergic Signaling to Amygdala and Orbitofrontal Cortex in Reversal Learning
Funded at New York State Psychiatric Institute Dba Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, INC · NIH-10985270 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain signals affect learning and adapting behavior, especially for people with autism or schizophrenia, to find better ways to help improve their thinking and behavior.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York State Psychiatric Institute Dba Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, INC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $197,235 |
| NIH project number | 1K08MH135164-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10985270 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia, or other cognitive dysfunctions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cognitive impairments not related to the conditions being studied may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific brain signaling pathways in learning and behavioral flexibility, particularly in conditions like autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia. It utilizes advanced techniques such as optogenetics and behavioral tracking to study how these pathways influence cognitive functions. By analyzing neural and behavioral data, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to improved treatments for cognitive impairments. The findings may help in developing targeted interventions for patients with these conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that enhance cognitive flexibility and improve adaptive behaviors in patients with autism and related disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain signaling and its impact on learning, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
New York State Psychiatric Institute Dba Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, INC
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Villarin, Joseph Manuel — New York State Psychiatric Institute Dba Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, INC
- Study coordinator: Villarin, Joseph Manuel
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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.