Understanding how specific brain areas affect language and speech functions
Exploring the expressive language function of the supplementary motor area
['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-10640110
This study is looking at how certain parts of the brain help with speaking and language, especially for people who have speech issues like stuttering, using special brain scans and monitoring to see how these areas work together.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10640110 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the supplementary motor area (SMA) and pre-supplementary motor area (preSMA) in expressive language functions. By utilizing advanced techniques like functional MRI and intracranial neurophysiology, the study aims to uncover how these brain regions contribute to speech production, motor initiation, and sequencing. Patients may undergo assessments that involve brain imaging and monitoring to explore the connections between brain activity and language abilities, particularly in those with speech disorders such as developmental stuttering.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing speech disorders, particularly those with developmental stuttering or related communication challenges.
Not a fit: Patients without any speech or language disorders or those with conditions unrelated to the functions of the SMA and preSMA may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies and interventions for individuals with speech and language disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the brain's role in speech production, but this specific focus on the SMA and preSMA in humans is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH — PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MALLELA, ARKA NARAYANA — UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH
- Study coordinator: MALLELA, ARKA NARAYANA
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.
Conditions: Disease