Understanding how the brain helps us learn new motor skills

Lateralization of posterior-parietal cortex contributions to motor learning

['FUNDING_R01'] · PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY, THE · NIH-10994881

This study is looking at how a specific part of the brain helps us learn new physical skills, like picking up a new sport, and it will see if gently stimulating this area can make learning those skills easier and faster for everyone.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorPENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY, THE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (UNIVERSITY PARK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10994881 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how different parts of the brain contribute to learning new motor skills, such as adapting to a new sport. It focuses on the posterior parietal cortex, particularly the left hemisphere, and how it affects motor adaptation and skill learning. The study will use non-invasive brain stimulation techniques to explore whether stimulating this area can enhance learning and transfer of skills. By examining how these processes work, the research aims to improve our understanding of motor learning in humans.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced strokes or have difficulties with motor learning and adaptation.

Not a fit: Patients with intact motor skills or those not experiencing motor learning difficulties may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies for individuals recovering from strokes or other conditions that affect motor skills.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the posterior parietal cortex in motor learning, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

UNIVERSITY PARK, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.