Understanding how the brain processes speech in different languages
The neural coding of speech across human languages
['FUNDING_U01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-10911258
This study is looking at how our brains understand the sounds of speech, like the different letters in words, and it’s for patients who speak either Mandarin, Spanish, or English, to help us learn more about how people from different languages process what they hear.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_U01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10911258 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the human brain decodes spoken language, focusing on the fundamental sounds of speech, such as consonants and vowels. By examining neural activity in the superior temporal cortex during neurosurgical procedures, researchers aim to understand how different languages may have unique phonetic codes. The study will involve patients who are either monolingual or bilingual in Mandarin, Spanish, and English, using advanced techniques like high-density electrode arrays to capture detailed brain activity. This approach could provide insights into the mechanisms of speech comprehension across various languages.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include individuals undergoing neurosurgery who are monolingual or bilingual in Mandarin, Spanish, or English.
Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing neurosurgery or who do not speak the targeted languages may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of communication disorders and improve treatment strategies for individuals with speech and language impairments.
How similar studies have performed: While research on speech processing has been conducted, this study's specific approach of examining multiple languages through direct cortical recordings is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO — SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CHANG, EDWARD — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO
- Study coordinator: CHANG, EDWARD
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: Autistic Disorder