Understanding how the brain controls leg movements in primates
Official title: Volitional Control of the Nonhuman Primate Lower Limbs
Funded at Brown University · NIH-11076824 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how a part of the brain helps control leg movements in monkeys while they walk, hoping to learn more about how we can improve treatments for people with walking difficulties.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $429,354 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS136805-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11076824 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions affecting their mobility, such as paralysis or other neurological disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable mobility and no neurological impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain's motor cortex influences the control of lower limb movements in nonhuman primates. By examining the neural signals involved in adjusting gait, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that allow for precise voluntary movements while walking. The approach includes monitoring brain activity and using advanced techniques like microelectrodes to gather data on how the brain interacts with spinal cord functions during locomotion. Insights gained could lead to improved therapies for mobility issues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance mobility for individuals with movement disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding brain control of movement, suggesting potential for breakthroughs in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Brown University
Providence, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Borton, David Allenson — Brown University
- Study coordinator: Borton, David Allenson
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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.