Understanding how the brain infers causes from sensory information

Neural Basis of Causal Inference: Representations, Circuits, and Dynamics

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER · NIH-10834911

This study is exploring how our brains figure out what's happening around us, like telling the difference between something moving and us moving, to help improve our understanding of how we make decisions and perceive the world.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10834911 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how the brain interprets sensory signals to determine the causes of events in the environment, such as distinguishing between a moving object and self-motion. It focuses on the neural circuits and representations involved in causal inference, particularly in the context of object motion and depth perception. By utilizing advanced modeling techniques, the study aims to uncover how different areas of the brain communicate to maintain a coherent understanding of reality. This could provide insights into the fundamental processes that underlie decision-making and perception.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals with conditions affecting sensory processing or decision-making abilities.

Not a fit: Patients with no sensory processing issues or those not experiencing decision-making disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of sensory processing and improve treatments for disorders related to perception and decision-making.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach to studying causal inference in this specific context may be novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding sensory processing and neural communication.

Where this research is happening

ROCHESTER, 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 →

Conditions: Disorder, Disease

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.