Understanding how brain signals related to rewards change over time
Stability and flexibility of neural representations in the ventral striatum
['FUNDING_R01'] · HARVARD UNIVERSITY · NIH-11049131
This study is looking at how a part of the brain that helps us feel rewards and make choices reacts when mice learn to connect different smells with good or bad outcomes, which could help us understand more about addiction and how we learn new things.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | HARVARD UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CAMBRIDGE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11049131 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the olfactory tubercle, a brain region involved in processing rewards and motivated behaviors like addiction. By using advanced imaging techniques, the researchers will observe how neural activity in this area changes as mice learn and adapt to new associations between odors and outcomes. The study aims to determine whether these neural representations remain stable or change when new information is learned or old information is forgotten. This could provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of addiction and learning.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with addiction or those interested in understanding the neural mechanisms of learning and behavior.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have issues related to addiction or learning disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment strategies for addiction and related disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding neural representations in other brain regions, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
CAMBRIDGE, UNITED STATES
- HARVARD UNIVERSITY — CAMBRIDGE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MURTHY, VENKATESH N — HARVARD UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: MURTHY, VENKATESH N
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.
Conditions: addictive disorder