Understanding how norepinephrine affects attention control in the brain
Official title: Isolating causal roles of norepinephrine neuromodulation in mediating distinct components of attention control
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-10819601 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a brain chemical called norepinephrine helps us pay attention and make decisions, and it's especially for people interested in understanding attention issues like ADHD.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | April 3, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $205,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R21MH130911-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10819601 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing attention disorders, such as ADHD, who may benefit from insights into the neurobiological mechanisms of attention control.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without attention-related disorders or those not experiencing cognitive control issues may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter, in managing different aspects of attention control in the brain. By studying how norepinephrine influences brain areas responsible for cognitive functions, the research aims to uncover the neurobiological mechanisms that help us focus and make decisions. The approach involves examining neuronal activity in specific brain regions, particularly in monkeys, to understand how attention shifts occur in response to environmental cues. The findings could lead to better understanding and treatment of attention disorders like ADHD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for attention-related disorders, enhancing patients' ability to focus and perform daily tasks.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of norepinephrine in attention, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ghosh, Supriya — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Ghosh, Supriya
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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.