Understanding how the brain "unlearns" habits
Project 4: Neural mechanisms underlying latent-cause inference
This project looks at how brain signals help us let go of old habits, especially those that are unhelpful, to prevent them from coming back.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Princeton University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Princeton, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11167642 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many people find it hard to break bad habits or overcome fears, even after therapy, because old patterns can return. This project aims to understand the brain's "unlearning" process, focusing on a specific brain area called the amygdala. Researchers will explore how a brain chemical called orexin might influence whether new, helpful experiences can truly replace old, unhelpful ones. By understanding these brain mechanisms, we hope to find new ways to make therapeutic changes last longer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to understand brain processes relevant to individuals struggling with anxiety, phobias, or other conditions involving maladaptive learned behaviors.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention would not benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies to improve the effectiveness of therapies for conditions like anxiety, making it easier for people to overcome maladaptive behaviors and prevent relapse.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of manipulating orexin signaling in the amygdala for latent-cause inference is novel, research into the neural basis of learning and memory, including the role of the amygdala and neuropeptides, has shown promising results in animal models.
Where this research is happening
Princeton, UNITED STATES
- Princeton University — Princeton, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Witten, Ilana — Princeton University
- Study coordinator: Witten, Ilana
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.