Understanding how cerebellar circuits affect thinking and emotional responses

Recruitment of Cerebellar Circuits to Modulate Cognition, Reward and Avoidance of Threat

NIH-funded research VA Puget Sound Healthcare System · NIH-11098426

This study is looking at how certain parts of the brain help with thinking and memory, especially for people with conditions like PTSD and brain injuries, to find new ways to improve their cognitive abilities.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVA Puget Sound Healthcare System NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-11098426 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of specific brain regions in the cerebellum that are activated during complex cognitive tasks. It aims to understand how these circuits influence cognitive functions such as attention and memory, particularly in individuals with psychiatric disorders like PTSD and TBI. By studying both human and non-human primate models, the research seeks to uncover the anatomical and functional organization of these brain areas, which could lead to targeted therapies for cognitive impairments. The findings may provide insights into how dopamine signaling affects cognition and emotional responses.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults with psychiatric conditions such as PTSD or traumatic brain injury who experience cognitive difficulties.

Not a fit: Patients without psychiatric disorders or cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic options for patients with cognitive impairments related to psychiatric disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of cerebellar circuits in cognition, suggesting that this approach may lead to significant advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.