Understanding how the brain learns and makes decisions
Official title: Neuronal mechanisms of model-based learning
Funded at University of California Berkeley · NIH-10925368 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our brains learn and make decisions, especially when things go wrong in conditions like anxiety or compulsive behavior, to find new ways to help people feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Berkeley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project start | September 8, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $697,714 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH131624-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10925368 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing neuropsychiatric conditions such as anxiety or compulsive behavior.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with purely physical health issues unrelated to neuropsychiatric conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain's learning processes can become dysfunctional, particularly in relation to neuropsychiatric diseases. It focuses on two types of learning: model-free, which is automatic and inflexible, and model-based, which is more deliberate and adaptable. By examining the interactions between specific brain regions, such as the hippocampus and orbitofrontal cortex, the research aims to uncover how these areas contribute to decision-making and reward prediction. This could lead to insights into conditions like compulsive behavior and anxiety, helping to identify new treatment approaches.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients with neuropsychiatric disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research in computational psychiatry has shown promise in understanding learning processes, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Berkeley
Berkeley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wallis, Joni D — University of California Berkeley
- Study coordinator: Wallis, Joni D
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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.