Understanding how the basal forebrain affects brain networks in psychiatric disorders
Basal forebrain regulation of default mode and task-on functional network activity: translational modeling of psychiatric disorders
This study is looking at how a part of the brain called the basal forebrain affects thinking and memory in people with schizophrenia, especially since their brain's default mode network often doesn't work well; the researchers hope to find new ways to help improve these cognitive issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA Boston Health Care System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11061842 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the basal forebrain in regulating brain networks associated with cognitive functions, particularly in patients with schizophrenia. It focuses on the default mode network (DMN), which is crucial for introspective thought and is often disrupted in individuals with severe neuropsychiatric disorders. By using advanced techniques like optogenetic stimulation, the study aims to explore how these disruptions affect cognitive abilities and overall brain function. The goal is to identify new therapeutic targets that could improve cognitive symptoms in patients who currently have limited treatment options.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia who experience cognitive deficits.
Not a fit: Patients with psychiatric disorders other than schizophrenia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve cognitive function in patients with schizophrenia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain network dynamics in psychiatric conditions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- VA Boston Health Care System — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcnally, James M — VA Boston Health Care System
- Study coordinator: Mcnally, James M
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.