Understanding how the brain processes social interactions

Organizing Principles of the Neural Circuits for Social Interaction

['FUNDING_R01'] · STANFORD UNIVERSITY · NIH-11083741

This study is looking at how the brains of rhesus macaques work when they play a game about making social decisions, which could help us understand how people with social interaction challenges think and behave in similar situations.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSTANFORD UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (STANFORD, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11083741 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the neural circuits involved in social cooperation and interaction by studying rhesus macaques playing a game that simulates social decision-making. The researchers aim to understand how the brain forms, maintains, and updates representations of social experiences, which are crucial for cooperative behavior. By recording neural activity in the prefrontal cortex, they will explore how different neural populations respond to both personal and others' actions in social contexts. This study could provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of social behavior, particularly in individuals with social interaction challenges.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with autism spectrum disorder or those experiencing challenges in social interactions.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have social interaction difficulties or those without autism spectrum disorder may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and interventions for individuals with social interaction difficulties, such as those with autism spectrum disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has successfully identified neural circuits related to social behavior, suggesting that this approach has the potential for meaningful insights.

Where this research is happening

STANFORD, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: autism spectral disorder, autism spectrum disorder, Autistic Disorder

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.