Understanding how the brain processes sensory information for movement control
Sensory motor transformations in human cortex
This study is looking at how the brain turns what we see and feel into movement, and it's designed for people with paralysis to help create devices that can help them move again by connecting directly to their brain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | California Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pasadena, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10899641 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the human brain transforms sensory information into motor actions, focusing on the cerebral cortex's role in this process. By recording from single neurons in the brains of tetraplegic participants, the study aims to develop neural prosthetics that can help restore movement. The researchers will implant microelectrode arrays in key areas of the brain responsible for motor control and sensory feedback, allowing them to both record brain activity and stimulate neurons. This approach seeks to improve our understanding of how the brain coordinates movement based on sensory input.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with tetraplegia due to spinal cord injuries.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to sensory-motor processing or those who are not paralyzed may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to advanced neural prosthetics that restore movement in individuals with paralysis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using neural prosthetics for restoring movement in paralyzed patients, indicating a potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
Pasadena, United States
- California Institute of Technology — Pasadena, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Andersen, Richard a — California Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Andersen, Richard a
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.