Understanding how the claustrum helps with flexible decision making.

The functions of the claustrum in flexible decision making.

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11222393

This study is looking at how a part of the brain called the claustrum helps us make flexible decisions, which can be tricky for people with conditions like ADHD and autism, and it aims to learn more about how this part of the brain works with others to improve our choices and learning.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorJOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11222393 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the claustrum, a part of the brain, in enabling flexible decision making, which is often impaired in neuropsychiatric disorders. By using specific tasks that require decision-making skills, the study aims to uncover how the claustrum interacts with other brain areas to influence choices and learning from past actions. The research will involve observing brain activity and testing the effects of manipulating the claustrum on decision-making processes. Patients may benefit from insights gained about cognitive flexibility and its implications for conditions like ADHD and autism.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with neuropsychiatric conditions that affect cognitive flexibility, such as ADHD or autism spectrum disorder.

Not a fit: Patients without neuropsychiatric conditions or those whose cognitive flexibility is not impaired may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients with cognitive flexibility issues, such as those with ADHD and autism.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of brain structures in decision making, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

BALTIMORE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism spectral disorder, autism spectrum disorder, Autistic Disorder

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.