Understanding how the brain plans spoken language during conversations

Cortical Dynamics Underlying Interactive Language Use

NIH-funded research New York University School of Medicine · NIH-11061870

This study is looking at how different parts of the brain help us plan and have conversations, and it's for people who want to understand more about how our brains work when we talk.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York University School of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11061870 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the brain's neural mechanisms involved in planning spoken interactions, focusing on how specific areas of the cortex contribute to fluent conversation. Using a technique called electrocorticography (ECoG), researchers will monitor brain activity in real-time as participants engage in both structured and spontaneous conversations. The study aims to identify key brain regions responsible for speech planning and to understand how disruptions in these areas affect communication. By isolating different components of utterance planning, the research seeks to provide insights into the cognitive processes behind language use.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or other communication impairments who may benefit from enhanced understanding of language processing.

Not a fit: Patients without communication disorders or those who do not experience difficulties in language use may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies for individuals with communication disorders, enhancing their ability to engage in conversations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research using ECoG has shown promise in understanding brain functions related to language, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.
Conditions autism spectral disorderautism spectrum disorderAutistic Disorderautistic spectrum disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.