Understanding how different learning systems interact in the brain
Official title: A circuit mechanism for the interactions between distinct learning systems
Funded at University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-11141200 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how different parts of the brain work together to help us learn and remember things, especially focusing on the prefrontal cortex, and it aims to find ways to improve learning for people who have trouble with memory or thinking.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | July 18, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $425,195 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH136968-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11141200 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing cognitive decline or impairments, particularly those related to learning and memory.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with intact cognitive functions who do not experience learning or memory difficulties may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how various learning systems in the brain communicate and coordinate with each other, particularly focusing on the role of the prefrontal cortex in managing these interactions. It aims to uncover how cognitive impairments can disrupt learning processes, even when the underlying brain circuits remain intact. By studying these mechanisms, the research seeks to identify ways to enhance learning and memory, especially in individuals with cognitive challenges. The approach involves analyzing behavioral paradigms and cognitive tasks to understand the dynamics of memory and learning.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for enhancing learning and memory in patients with cognitive impairments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the interactions between different learning systems, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Baltimore
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wolff, Steffen — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Wolff, Steffen
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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.