Understanding how visual and spatial information is processed in the brain
Official title: Hierarchy of visuospatial codes in the primate temporal lobe
Funded at Harvard Medical School · NIH-11019634 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how two important parts of the brain work together to help us understand what we see and where things are, which could lead to better treatments for people with memory or thinking problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard Medical School NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $576,474 |
| NIH project number | 1R01EY036839-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11019634 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with cognitive impairments, particularly those related to visual and spatial processing.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cognitive related conditions or those without any visual or spatial processing issues may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between visual features and spatial representations in the primate temporal lobe, focusing on two key brain areas: the inferior temporal cortex and the medial temporal lobe. By employing advanced technologies such as chronic multielectrode recordings, the study aims to uncover how these areas, traditionally viewed as having distinct functions, actually work together to process complex visual and spatial information. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how these brain regions interact, potentially informing future treatments for cognitive disorders. The research will involve tasks that engage both visual and spatial processing to better understand the underlying neural mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment strategies for cognitive disorders like Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding brain function through similar innovative approaches, suggesting potential for meaningful advancements in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard Medical School
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Livingstone, Margaret S — Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Livingstone, Margaret S
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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.