Understanding how internal states affect decision-making in the brain

Mechanistic neural circuit models and principles

NIH-funded research Columbia Univ New York Morningside · NIH-10906303

This study looks at how an animal's feelings and focus affect the choices it makes, using a special task to help understand the brain's role in these decisions.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia Univ New York Morningside NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10906303 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how an animal's internal state, such as its level of engagement, influences its decision-making processes. By utilizing a standardized decision-making task developed by the International Brain Laboratory, the research team aims to create mechanistic models that explain the neural circuits involved in these decisions. The approach includes training animals, measuring neural activity, and analyzing data to understand the relationship between internal states and behavior. This comprehensive methodology seeks to uncover the underlying neural mechanisms that drive decision-making.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with conditions affecting cognitive function or decision-making processes.

Not a fit: Patients with stable cognitive function and no decision-making impairments may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into how brain function affects behavior, potentially informing treatments for conditions that impact decision-making.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research in neural circuit modeling has shown promise in understanding decision-making processes, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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 2026-06-09 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.