Understanding how the brain processes spatial information
Thalamocortical Circuits Governing Egocentric-Allocentric Spatial Reference Frame Transformations
['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · BOSTON UNIVERSITY (CHARLES RIVER CAMPUS) · NIH-11068562
This study is looking at how our brains change what we see and feel from a personal view into a bigger picture of the world around us, and it could help people understand more about how we think about space and remember things.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BOSTON UNIVERSITY (CHARLES RIVER CAMPUS) (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11068562 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain transforms sensory information from a personal perspective into a broader, world-centered understanding of space. It focuses on specific brain regions and their connections, particularly how visual information is processed and represented in different ways. By using advanced techniques like dual-site in vivo electrophysiology and chemogenetic silencing, the study aims to uncover the neural mechanisms that facilitate this transformation. Patients may benefit from insights gained about cognitive functions related to spatial awareness and memory.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing cognitive decline or memory issues, particularly those diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients with non-cognitive related neurological disorders or those without any cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for cognitive impairments associated with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding spatial memory and cognitive functions through similar neural pathway investigations, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- BOSTON UNIVERSITY (CHARLES RIVER CAMPUS) — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LACHANCE, PATRICK ADAM — BOSTON UNIVERSITY (CHARLES RIVER CAMPUS)
- Study coordinator: LACHANCE, PATRICK ADAM
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.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease