Understanding how the brain perceives object shapes through vision and touch
Modality-independent representations of object shape in macaque inferotemporal cortex
['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-10933408
This study is exploring how the brain combines what we see and feel to understand the shapes of objects, using monkeys to learn more about how this works, which could help us better understand how we recognize things around us.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10933408 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain creates a unified perception of object shapes using both visual and haptic (touch) inputs. By studying the inferotemporal cortex in macaques, the researchers will record the activity of neurons while the animals interact with objects presented visually and through 3D-printed models. This approach aims to uncover the neural mechanisms that allow the brain to integrate these different sensory modalities into a single perception of shape. The findings could enhance our understanding of sensory processing and object recognition.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals with visual or tactile processing difficulties, such as those with sensory integration disorders.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have any sensory processing issues or those who are not affected by conditions related to object recognition may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for designing assistive technologies that enhance object recognition for individuals with sensory processing disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding sensory integration in humans, but this specific approach using macaque models is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES
- JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY — BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SNIDER, WILLIAM GRAYSON — JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: SNIDER, WILLIAM GRAYSON
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.