Understanding how the adolescent brain learns and makes decisions
Neural basis of learning and response inhibition in adolescents
This research explores how the brains of adolescents learn and control their actions, hoping to better understand brain disorders and risky behaviors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11079498 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We want to understand how the adolescent brain processes information differently from an adult brain, especially when it comes to learning and making decisions. Our work focuses on specific brain areas, like the orbitofrontal cortex and striatum, which are important for how we learn from rewards and stop ourselves from making impulsive choices. By comparing these brain circuits in adolescent and adult models, we hope to uncover why certain behaviors and conditions appear during the teenage years. This deeper understanding could help us develop better ways to support young people's mental health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit adolescents who experience brain disorders or engage in reckless behaviors.
Not a fit: Patients will not receive direct benefit from participating in this animal model research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of the brain changes that contribute to mental health conditions and risky behaviors in adolescents, potentially guiding future prevention and treatment strategies.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon previous findings and tools developed by the researchers, suggesting a foundation of prior work in this area.
Where this research is happening
Portland, United States
- Oregon Health & Science University — Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Moghaddam, Bita — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Moghaddam, Bita
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.