Understanding how context influences decision-making in the brain
Multiscale imaging of context-dependent decision-making
This study is looking at how the brain uses information from our surroundings to help make decisions, especially for people with conditions like schizophrenia, and it will use mice to learn more about how this works at a tiny level, which could lead to better treatments for those who struggle with thinking clearly.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11061198 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain uses contextual information to guide decision-making, particularly in relation to psychiatric conditions like schizophrenia. By utilizing advanced imaging techniques such as 2-photon microscopy, the study aims to explore the specific brain areas involved in maintaining contextual information and how they influence behavior. The research will involve animal models, specifically mice, to gain insights into the cellular-level mechanisms that underlie these cognitive processes. This understanding could pave the way for developing new therapies for individuals with cognitive impairments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with psychiatric conditions that impair decision-making, such as schizophrenia.
Not a fit: Patients without cognitive impairments or those not diagnosed with psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel therapeutic strategies for improving decision-making abilities in patients with psychiatric disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding decision-making processes in the brain, but this approach using 2-photon microscopy in animal models is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gruskin, David Court — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Gruskin, David Court
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.