Understanding how mice process sound location in the brain
Coding of auditory space in the mouse superior colliculus
This study is looking at how the brains of mice help them figure out where sounds are coming from, which could help us understand how our own brains process sounds in real life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Santa Cruz NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Santa Cruz, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11042187 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the mouse brain encodes the location of sounds using the Superior Colliculus (SC), a critical area for auditory processing. By utilizing advanced molecular and genetic tools, the study aims to identify the specific types of neurons and their connections that contribute to a 2-dimensional map of auditory space. Researchers will stimulate awake mice with carefully designed auditory cues while recording neuronal responses to understand the underlying mechanisms of sound localization. This approach could provide insights into how auditory information is processed in real-time.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals with auditory processing disorders or those interested in the neuroscience of hearing.
Not a fit: Patients with no auditory processing issues or those who are not affected by auditory localization challenges may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of auditory processing, potentially leading to improved treatments for hearing disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research in primates and ferrets has shown success in understanding auditory processing, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights in mice as well.
Where this research is happening
Santa Cruz, United States
- University of California Santa Cruz — Santa Cruz, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Feldheim, David a — University of California Santa Cruz
- Study coordinator: Feldheim, David a
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.