NIH-funded research R21 grant

Understanding how the brain adapts to process sensory information.

Official title: Cortical adaptation in neural populations

Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11004674 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how brain cells adjust to process sensory information when things around us change, and it aims to help us understand brain function better, which could lead to new treatments for neurological conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project startJanuary 1, 2024
Project endDecember 31, 2025
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$196,875
NIH project number5R21EY035064-02
Project IDNIH-11004674 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for participation or benefit would include individuals with cognitive or sensory processing disorders.

Less likely to help

Patients with stable neurological conditions that do not affect sensory processing may not receive direct benefits from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how populations of cortical neurons in the brain adapt to represent sensory information in changing environments. By using advanced mathematical and geometric analyses, the study aims to develop a theory that can predict how these neurons respond to different stimuli based on prior experiences. Patients may benefit from insights gained about brain function and adaptation, which could inform treatments for neurological conditions. The research will involve testing specific hypotheses about neuronal response patterns and their implications for cognitive processing.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment of cognitive and sensory processing disorders.

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding brain adaptation mechanisms, but this approach may offer novel insights.

Where this research is happening

  • University of California Los Angeles
    Los Angeles, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Ringach, Dario L — University of California Los Angeles
  • Study coordinator: Ringach, Dario L

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.