Understanding how the thalamus affects cognitive control in the brain
Cognitive Control Functions of the Human Thalamus
This study is looking at how a part of the brain called the thalamus helps control thinking and behavior, especially in people with conditions like schizophrenia and ADHD, to better understand how problems in this area might affect mental health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10778187 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the human thalamus in cognitive control, which is essential for regulating behaviors and mental processes. It focuses on how the thalamus interacts with other brain regions to influence cognitive functions, particularly in patients with neurological and psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia and ADHD. By using advanced techniques to analyze brain activity, the study aims to uncover how thalamic dysfunction impacts cognitive control and overall mental health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with neurological or psychiatric disorders that affect cognitive control, such as schizophrenia, ADHD, or those recovering from traumatic brain injuries.
Not a fit: Patients without cognitive control impairments or those with conditions unrelated to thalamic function may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for cognitive impairments associated with various mental health disorders.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of the thalamus in cognitive control is increasingly recognized, this specific investigation into its functions in humans is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Iowa City, United States
- University of Iowa — Iowa City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hwang, Kai — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Hwang, Kai
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.