Understanding how the brain makes visual decisions

Neural mechanisms of flexible visual-oculomotor decision rules

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-11158882

This study is looking at how our brains take in visual information and make decisions, using monkeys to understand how they use different rules to choose what to do based on what they see.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11158882 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the neural mechanisms behind how our brains process visual information to make decisions. It focuses on two main components: converting uncertain visual inputs into a decision variable and applying rules to that variable to make a choice. By studying monkeys, the researchers will explore how flexible decision-making rules are implemented in the brain, using innovative task designs and measuring neural activity in specific brain areas involved in eye movement. The goal is to gain insights into the cognitive processes that underlie decision-making.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals with cognitive impairments or disorders affecting decision-making abilities.

Not a fit: Patients without cognitive impairments or those not experiencing decision-making difficulties may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment of cognitive impairments related to decision-making.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding decision-making processes in the brain, making this approach promising.

Where this research is happening

PHILADELPHIA, 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: addictive disorder

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.