Understanding how the brain makes decisions based on context
Unraveling the neural mechanism underlying context-dependent decision making
['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-11058362
This study is looking at how the brain helps us make decisions based on different situations, which is important for daily life, and it aims to understand how this process might be different in people with autism or ADHD, using mice to explore the brain areas involved.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11058362 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain processes contextual information to make flexible decisions, which is crucial for everyday activities. Using advanced genetic and imaging techniques in mouse models, the study aims to uncover the neural mechanisms involved in context-dependent decision making. It focuses on how these processes may be altered in conditions like autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. By examining the role of specific brain regions, particularly the anterior lateral motor cortex, the research seeks to provide insights into cognitive flexibility and its implications for mental health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to cognitive flexibility or those without a diagnosis of autism or ADHD may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment strategies for cognitive inflexibility in patients with autism and ADHD.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in understanding neural mechanisms of decision making, but this specific approach using advanced imaging in animal models is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SHEN, JIA — COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES
- Study coordinator: SHEN, JIA
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.
Conditions: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder