Understanding how certain brain receptors affect visual processing

Probing D2 and 5HT-2A mechanisms in early visual processing in V1

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11000271

This study is looking at how certain brain receptors might affect how people with schizophrenia see things, with the goal of finding new ways to help improve their vision.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11000271 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of specific brain receptors, particularly dopamine D2 and serotonin 5HT-2A, in how the brain processes visual information. It focuses on the primary visual cortex (V1) and aims to understand how these receptors contribute to visual deficits observed in conditions like schizophrenia. By examining the differences in how these receptors influence visual pathways, the research seeks to uncover potential therapeutic targets for improving visual processing in affected patients. The approach includes analyzing existing clinical data and exploring the effects of antipsychotic medications on visual processing.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia who experience visual processing difficulties.

Not a fit: Patients without visual processing deficits or those not diagnosed with schizophrenia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for visual processing deficits in patients with schizophrenia and potentially other conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting dopamine and serotonin systems can improve visual deficits in schizophrenia, indicating a promising avenue for this investigation.

Where this research is happening

DURHAM, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.