Understanding how the cerebellum controls movement coordination
Official title: The role of cerebellar output in the control of motor coordination
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11014408 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a part of the brain called the anterior interposed nucleus helps us make precise movements with our arms and legs, using mice to learn more about how our brains coordinate these actions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $37,941 |
| NIH project number | 5F31NS130867-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11014408 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing motor coordination deficits related to cerebellar dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without cerebellar damage or those with other unrelated motor conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific part of the cerebellum, known as the anterior interposed nucleus (IntA), in controlling precise limb movements. By studying how IntA neurons fire during complex motor tasks, the research aims to uncover how these signals contribute to coordinated movements. The approach includes using advanced techniques like in vivo recordings and optogenetic manipulations in mice to explore how the brain ensures accuracy in reaching for targets. This could lead to a better understanding of motor control and learning.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could improve treatments for individuals with motor coordination issues due to cerebellar damage.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cerebellar function and its impact on motor control, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dobrott, Courtney I — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Dobrott, Courtney I
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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.