Understanding how we focus on important sounds in noisy environments
Behavioral outcomes and neurobiological mechanisms of sustained auditory selective attention
This study is looking at how we can pay attention to certain sounds, like a friend's voice, while tuning out background noise, which is really important for talking and listening in places like schools and offices, especially for people with conditions that make hearing difficult.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10808867 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how people manage to focus on specific sounds while ignoring background noise, which is crucial for effective communication in everyday settings like schools and workplaces. It aims to uncover the cognitive and neural mechanisms behind auditory selective attention, particularly how we enhance relevant sounds and suppress irrelevant ones. Using advanced imaging techniques, the study will explore these processes in the brain to better understand their impact on individuals with neurological conditions that affect listening abilities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who experience challenges with auditory attention due to neurological conditions.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have any auditory processing issues or neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies and therapies for individuals with auditory processing difficulties, enhancing their communication skills and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding auditory attention mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Austin, United States
- University of Texas at Austin — Austin, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Holt, Lori L — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Holt, Lori L
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.