Understanding How the Brain Processes Speech Sounds
Human Auditory Cortex Physiology
This project aims to understand how different parts of the brain work together to help us hear and understand speech, especially in patients undergoing brain surgery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11005043 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project explores how the brain predicts and processes speech sounds, using a model called "predictive coding." Researchers will use special methods, including direct recordings from the brain and non-invasive techniques, in patients who are already having brain surgery. They will also gently stimulate parts of the brain to see how it affects speech perception. This approach helps overcome challenges in understanding how the brain's speech network functions. The goal is to pinpoint where and how speech information is represented within this complex network.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are neurosurgery patients who need chronic intracranial electrodes placed as part of their medical care.
Not a fit: Patients not undergoing neurosurgery requiring intracranial electrode placement would not directly participate in this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of speech perception, potentially helping patients with acquired brain injuries or other conditions affecting speech processing.
How similar studies have performed: This project uses novel combinations of experimental methods to address long-standing challenges in the field, suggesting a unique approach.
Where this research is happening
Iowa City, United States
- University of Iowa — Iowa City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Howard, Matthew a. — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Howard, Matthew 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.