Understanding how the frontal cortex affects self-control
Official title: Role of Frontal Cortex in Self-Control
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11136519 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a part of the brain called the frontal cortex helps with self-control and managing our actions, and it’s designed for anyone interested in understanding how we can better control our thoughts and behaviors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $619,745 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH137085-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11136519 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with ADHD or other behavioral control disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have issues with behavioral control or self-regulation may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the frontal cortex in self-control and behavioral control, which are essential for managing actions, thoughts, and desires. By using neuroimaging and behavioral tasks, the study aims to uncover the neuronal mechanisms that contribute to response inhibition and self-control. The research will involve training monkeys to perform tasks that differentiate between motor control and self-control, helping to clarify whether these processes share the same brain circuits or operate independently.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for conditions like ADHD and other disorders related to behavioral control.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the brain mechanisms of self-control, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stuphorn, Veit — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Stuphorn, Veit
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Targeting hidden brain injuries in iTTP to improve long-term brain health
A researcher aims to find out how silent brain injuries in people with immune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (iTTP) happen, how they affect thinking and stroke risk, and how to prevent them.
-
Accelerated flap coverage for severe leg injuries: earlier reconstruction vs standard timing
This study tests whether doing early flap coverage after a severe leg injury lowers infection risk and improves healing for patients with open wounds and bone injury.
-
Placebo-controlled shunting for iNPH: does the surgery help with walking and balance?
A doctor-led trial at Johns Hopkins will test whether a shunt surgery improves walking and balance in older adults with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus.
-
Omalizumab for COPD patients with allergen sensitization and exposure
A multicenter trial will test whether adding omalizumab helps people with COPD who are allergic to common indoor allergens and are exposed to them.
-
Johns Hopkins Total Worker Health Center focusing on mental health
A nationwide center at Johns Hopkins is working to improve mental health and well-being among workers by studying workplace health strategies and translating findings into practical tools.
-
Role of fat droplets in liver fat and inflammatory signals in NAFLD
A study at Johns Hopkins will explore how fat droplets in the liver influence molecules that drive inflammation and progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in adults.
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.