Understanding how the brain makes decisions under uncertainty

Neural circuits for adaptively biasing decision making

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10913624

This study is looking at how certain brain areas help mice make decisions when they're unsure about what they see, especially by learning from their past choices, and it aims to help us understand how our brains make smart decisions in tricky situations.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10913624 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the neural circuits in the brain that influence decision making, particularly when faced with uncertain sensory information. By focusing on the superior colliculus, a critical area for spatial decision making, the study aims to understand how past choices and their outcomes affect current decisions. The researchers will conduct experiments with mice to explore how these brain circuits integrate prior knowledge with sensory evidence to guide decision making. This work could provide insights into the mechanisms of adaptive decision making in the brain.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that impair decision-making abilities or cognitive function.

Not a fit: Patients with stable cognitive function and no decision-making impairments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of decision-making processes, potentially informing treatments for conditions that affect cognitive function.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding decision-making processes through similar neural circuit investigations, indicating that this approach is promising.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.