Understanding how the brain predicts rewards and controls actions
A theoretical framework for probabilistic reinforcement learning in the basal ganglia
This study looks at how a part of the brain helps us figure out long-term rewards and make choices to get the most out of them, focusing on the role of a chemical called dopamine, and it aims to improve treatments for people with conditions that affect decision-making and reward processing.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard Medical School NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10687830 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the basal ganglia in the brain helps estimate long-term rewards and control actions to maximize those rewards. It focuses on the role of dopamine in learning and decision-making, proposing a new theoretical framework that combines learning, probabilistic inference, and action selection. By analyzing how brain signals encode reward predictions and influence behavior, the research aims to provide insights into adaptive behavior and improve our understanding of learning processes. Patients may benefit from advancements in treatments for conditions related to reward processing and decision-making.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with conditions affecting the basal ganglia, such as Parkinson's disease or other movement disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to reward processing or basal ganglia function may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for neurological and psychological conditions that affect learning and decision-making.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding the role of dopamine in learning and behavior, making this approach a promising continuation of established findings.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Harvard Medical School — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gershman, Samuel J — Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Gershman, Samuel J
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.