Understanding how certain brain circuits affect attention.
Official title: Basal Forebrain Non-cholinergic Circuit Mechanisms of Sustained Attention
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11179294 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special brain cells that might help us pay attention better, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how our brains work when we focus on tasks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $485,668 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH137463-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11179294 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing cognitive decline or attention deficits, particularly those diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with attention issues not related to basal forebrain dysfunction or those with other neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific neurons in the basal forebrain that may influence sustained attention, particularly focusing on a type of neuron known as parvalbumin-expressing GABAergic neurons. The study aims to determine how these neurons interact with other brain areas and how their activity relates to attention performance. By using advanced techniques like optogenetics and computational modeling, researchers will explore how these neurons can enhance attention and improve cognitive functions. This research could provide insights into alternative mechanisms of attention beyond the traditional understanding of cholinergic signaling.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for improving attention in patients with cognitive impairments, such as those with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: While the exploration of non-cholinergic circuits in attention is relatively novel, preliminary studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of these neurons.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kepecs, Adam — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Kepecs, Adam
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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.