Understanding how the brain coordinates spatial memory and actions
Official title: Neurobiological Basis of Reference Frame Coordination for Spatial Memory to Action Transformations
Funded at Florida State University · NIH-11161865 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our brains help us remember where things are and how we use that information to move around, which is especially important for people with conditions like Alzheimer's who might struggle with navigation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Florida State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tallahassee, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $495,907 |
| NIH project number | 1R56MH133929-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11161865 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias who experience difficulties with spatial orientation and memory.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurological conditions or those without cognitive impairments may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain processes spatial memories and translates them into actions, which is crucial for navigation. It focuses on understanding the neural mechanisms that allow individuals to remember locations and determine actions based on those memories. By examining specific brain regions involved in these processes, the study aims to uncover how impairments in spatial orientation can affect daily activities. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved strategies for managing navigation difficulties associated with conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better strategies for helping patients with Alzheimer's disease navigate their environments more effectively.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding spatial memory and navigation in patients with cognitive impairments, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Florida State University
Tallahassee, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wilber, Aaron a — Florida State University
- Study coordinator: Wilber, Aaron a
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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.