Understanding how the brain controls eye movements
Neural control of coordinated eye movements
This study is looking at how our brains help us move our eyes quickly and smoothly between different things we see, which is especially important for people who have trouble with eye movements.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10896180 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the neural mechanisms behind coordinated eye movements, specifically focusing on disjunctive saccades, which are rapid eye movements that allow us to shift our gaze between different targets in a 3D environment. The study aims to identify specific neurons in the brain that are responsible for these movements and how they interact with other brain regions to maintain visual focus. By using advanced techniques such as electrical microstimulation, researchers will explore how these neural circuits function and their role in maintaining proper eye alignment during gaze shifts. This research could provide insights into conditions that affect eye movement coordination.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing eye movement disorders such as strabismus or convergence insufficiency.
Not a fit: Patients with stable eye movements and no history of eye coordination issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients with eye movement disorders, enhancing their visual coordination and overall quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding eye movement control, but this specific focus on disjunctive saccades and the identified neuron types is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Quinet, Julie — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Quinet, Julie
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.