Understanding how the brain infers causes during navigation
Project C: Neural basis of causal inference in continuous navigation
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER · NIH-10834923
This study is looking at how our brains make sense of confusing information when we move around, using virtual reality tasks with monkeys and mice to see how different parts of the brain work together to help us understand what’s happening around us.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10834923 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain interprets ambiguous sensory information to determine the causes of events in the environment, particularly during navigation tasks. By using virtual reality navigation tasks with monkeys and mice, the study aims to explore how different brain regions interact to update internal models of the world based on sensory inputs. The research focuses on the roles of specific neurons in the parietal and prefrontal areas in processing motion and depth information, which are crucial for decision-making and perception. Through this approach, the project seeks to uncover the neural mechanisms behind causal inference in dynamic environments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation would be individuals with neurological conditions that impact decision-making or perception.
Not a fit: Patients with stable neurological conditions that do not affect their cognitive or perceptual abilities may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of decision-making processes and improve treatments for conditions affecting perception and cognition.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding neural mechanisms of perception and decision-making, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER — ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ANGELAKI, DORA — UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER
- Study coordinator: ANGELAKI, DORA
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.