Understanding how the brain tracks sequences of actions across different species

Testing neural mechanisms of sequence monitoring in the frontal cortex across species: integrated fMRI and electrophysiology

NIH-funded research Brown University · NIH-11051792

This study is looking at how our brains keep track of the order of actions and events, which is important for everyone, especially for those with conditions like OCD, to help find better ways to treat these challenges.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBrown University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Providence, United States)
Project IDNIH-11051792 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the neural mechanisms involved in sequence monitoring, which is the brain's ability to track the order of actions or events. By using advanced imaging techniques like fMRI and electrophysiology, the study aims to explore how different areas of the brain, particularly the frontal cortex, contribute to this process. The findings could lead to new insights into disorders that disrupt sequential behaviors, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), by identifying the specific brain functions involved. Patients may benefit from improved treatment strategies based on a better understanding of these neural mechanisms.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or other conditions that disrupt sequential behaviors.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have any disorders affecting their ability to monitor sequences or those with unrelated neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for disorders that affect the ability to monitor and execute sequences of actions.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding brain mechanisms related to behavior monitoring, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Providence, 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.