Understanding how the brain signals choices in foraging behavior
Transformation of value in the basal ganglia
This study is looking at how the brain helps mice make choices about finding food, which can teach us more about how decision-making works and could help us understand conditions like anxiety and depression better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11130296 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain processes information about the costs and benefits of different choices during foraging, which is essential for survival. Using a specially designed task for mice, the study aims to explore how the basal ganglia, a group of structures in the brain, influence decision-making by encoding value and choice. The researchers will manipulate and monitor neural activity to understand how these signals affect behavior, providing insights into the underlying mechanisms of decision-making. This work could help clarify the neural circuits involved in cognitive functions related to anxiety and depression.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals experiencing anxiety or depression, as well as those interested in cognitive function.
Not a fit: Patients with neurological disorders unrelated to decision-making or cognitive function may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of the neural mechanisms behind decision-making, potentially informing treatments for anxiety and depression.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding neural circuits related to decision-making, making this approach promising yet still novel in its specific focus on foraging behavior.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Northwestern University at Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cox, Julia — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Cox, Julia
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.