Understanding how math skills relate to language processing in the brain

Neural Basis of Math and Aphasia

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11001561

This study is looking at how math skills and language are connected in the brain, especially for people who have had strokes and may struggle with speaking or doing math, to help find better ways to support them.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11001561 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the neural connections between math skills and language processing, particularly focusing on how precise numeracy is linked to language areas in the brain. By using advanced imaging techniques like MRI and diffusion-weighted imaging, the study aims to analyze brain lesions in individuals who have experienced strokes. The goal is to uncover how these brain regions interact and how disorders like aphasia and acalculia affect mathematical abilities. This research could provide insights into the cognitive processes involved in math and language, potentially leading to better therapeutic strategies for affected individuals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have experienced left-hemisphere strokes resulting in language and math processing difficulties.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced a stroke or do not have language processing disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of cognitive disorders and improve rehabilitation strategies for patients with aphasia and related conditions.

How similar studies have performed: While the interaction between math and language processing is a relatively novel area of research, previous studies have shown promising results in understanding cognitive functions through brain imaging techniques.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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.