Understanding how the brain coordinates movements of the face and mouth
High- and low-level computations for coordination of orofacial motor actions
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-10930306
This study looks at how certain brain areas help control important actions like breathing and eating, as well as exploring the world through sniffing and licking, to better understand how our bodies move smoothly and flexibly, which could help improve treatments for people with movement disorders.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10930306 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the neuronal circuits in the brainstem that control essential motor actions like breathing and feeding, as well as exploratory actions such as sniffing and licking. By examining how these actions are rhythmically coordinated, the research aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that allow for flexible and precise behaviors. The approach combines theoretical concepts from control theory and coupled oscillators with various experimental procedures to analyze how high-level signals modulate low-level motor activities. Patients may benefit from insights into how these processes work, potentially leading to improved treatments for motor coordination disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with conditions affecting orofacial motor control.
Not a fit: Patients with unrelated neurological conditions that do not impact orofacial motor actions may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for patients with motor coordination issues.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding motor control through similar theoretical approaches, indicating potential for impactful findings in this area.
Where this research is happening
LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO — LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KLEINFELD, DAVID — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- Study coordinator: KLEINFELD, DAVID
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.