Understanding how the brain plans complex actions
Official title: Identifying the neural correlates of mental simulation in multi-step planning
Funded at New York University · NIH-11049462 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our brains plan and think about future actions while playing a game called 'Four-in-a-Row,' using special imaging tools to see which parts of the brain are active during decision-making, so we can better understand how we make choices in everyday life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | February 20, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $389,735 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH134979-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11049462 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or obsessive-compulsive disorder who experience challenges with planning and decision-making.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without planning difficulties or those not diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or obsessive-compulsive disorder may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the neural mechanisms involved in planning by examining how the brain simulates potential future actions during decision-making. Using a game called 'Four-in-a-Row', the study combines advanced neuroimaging techniques like fMRI and MEG with eye-tracking to analyze brain activity while participants engage in complex planning tasks. The goal is to identify specific brain regions responsible for evaluating potential moves and to understand the timing of these mental simulations. This approach aims to bridge the gap between simplified laboratory tasks and real-life decision-making processes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for helping individuals with planning difficulties, particularly those with autism spectrum disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in using neuroimaging techniques to study decision-making processes, making this approach both relevant and promising.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ma, Wei Ji — New York University
- Study coordinator: Ma, Wei Ji
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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.