Understanding how brain states affect visual rehabilitation therapies
Official title: Quantitative Electrophysiology to Link Neuroplasticity, Brain State, and Behavioral Change in Human Visual Cortex
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11026418 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how paying attention can help improve treatments for vision problems like amblyopia by using a special technique called rTMS to see how it affects the brain's ability to change and adapt.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $277,133 |
| NIH project number | 5K08EY035037-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11026418 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with amblyopia or other central visual disorders who are seeking innovative treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with visual disorders not related to neuroplasticity or those who do not respond to rTMS may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between brain states, such as attention and arousal, and their impact on neuroplasticity in the human visual cortex. By using techniques like repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), the study aims to determine how controlling attention during treatment can enhance the effectiveness of therapies for visual disorders like amblyopia. Participants will undergo rTMS while focusing their attention on specific visual fields to assess changes in brain activity and visual perception. The goal is to improve rehabilitation strategies for individuals with central visual disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective rehabilitation techniques for patients with visual disorders, enhancing their recovery and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using brain state modulation to enhance neuroplasticity, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ash, Ryan Thomas — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Ash, Ryan Thomas
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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.