Understanding how the brain chooses what to pay attention to
Stimulus competition and visuospatial selection: Neural circuit and computational mechanisms
This project explores how the brain selects important information from its surroundings, which could help us better understand conditions like ADHD and autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11091531 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our brains are constantly bombarded with information, but they are very good at focusing on what's most important. This project looks at the specific brain circuits that help us make these choices, especially how different parts of the brain work together to prioritize certain sights or sounds. By studying these fundamental processes, we hope to uncover why some people with conditions like ADHD and autism might struggle with attention and focus. The findings could lead to new ways to support individuals facing these challenges.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational animal research does not involve direct patient participation, but its findings are relevant to individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autistic Disorder (ASD).
Not a fit: Patients not affected by attention or visuospatial processing challenges related to conditions like ADHD or autism may not directly benefit from this specific line of basic research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide a deeper understanding of the brain's attention systems, potentially leading to new strategies or treatments for attention-related disorders such as ADHD and autism.
How similar studies have performed: Prior work in monkeys and barn owls has shown that specific brain regions are crucial for competitive stimulus selection, providing a strong foundation for this deeper exploration of neural networks.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mysore, Shreesh P — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Mysore, Shreesh P
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.