Understanding the brain circuits that control facial movements
Official title: Neuroanatomical and molecular architecture of high- and low-level circuits controlling orofacial movements
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-10930310 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different parts of the brain work together to control movements we use for eating, breathing, and talking, and it aims to help us understand how these processes can be affected by different health conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $396,323 |
| NIH project number | 1U19NS137920-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10930310 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with disorders that impair orofacial movements, such as neurological conditions or injuries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to motor control or orofacial movements may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex brain circuits that manage orofacial movements, which are essential for activities like eating, breathing, and communication. By examining both high-level and low-level circuits in the brain, the project aims to uncover how these circuits interact to produce precise motor actions. The study employs advanced techniques such as viral genetic tracing and whole-brain imaging to map the anatomical and molecular architecture of these circuits. This research could provide insights into how motor control is organized in the brain and how it can be affected by various conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for conditions affecting facial and motor control.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in mapping brain circuits related to motor control, suggesting that this approach has potential for meaningful discoveries.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Economo, Michael Nicholas — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Economo, Michael Nicholas
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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.