Understanding how the brain times movements accurately

A cerebellar synaptic mechanism for temporally precise behaviors

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11111746

This study is looking at how a part of the brain called the cerebellum helps us move accurately, like when we blink our eyes or reach for something, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how brain injuries might affect movement timing.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11111746 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the cerebellum, a part of the brain, helps coordinate precise movements by integrating information from the environment and the body's internal state. Using advanced optical tools, the study will examine the synaptic properties of cerebellar circuits in mice to understand how they generate accurate timing for behaviors like eye blinks and skilled reaching. By measuring the activity of specific brain cells during these tasks, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms that allow for precise temporal control in movement. This could lead to insights into how timing in movement is affected by cerebellar damage.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with movement disorders or conditions affecting the cerebellum.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to motor control or cerebellar function may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of movement disorders and lead to improved treatments for conditions affecting motor control.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding cerebellar functions, but this specific approach using novel optical tools is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.