Understanding how the brain makes flexible decisions in real-world situations
Official title: Neural basis of flexible decisions in naturalistic environments
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-10918212 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how our brains help us make smart choices in everyday situations, like finding food, and it aims to understand how this process might be different for people with conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $113,654 |
| NIH project number | 5K99EY035362-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10918212 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related cognitive impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no cognitive impairments or those with other unrelated neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain processes visual information to make flexible decisions in natural environments, such as when foraging for food. By examining brain activity in areas like the prefrontal cortex, the study aims to uncover how we filter out distractions and adapt our plans based on changing circumstances. Using advanced technologies, the research will explore the neural mechanisms that support these cognitive abilities, which are crucial for navigating complex environments. Patients may benefit from insights into how these processes are affected in conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and interventions for cognitive impairments in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cognitive flexibility and decision-making processes, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Srinath, Ramanujan — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Srinath, Ramanujan
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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.