Understanding the brain's role in mastering motor skills like throwing and carrying objects
CRCNS Research Proposal: Collaborative Research: Neural Basis of Motor Expertise
This study is looking at how our brains help us do tricky movements, like shooting a basketball or carrying a cup of coffee, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how we can get better at these skills or recover from injuries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northeastern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10915713 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain controls complex motor skills, such as throwing a basketball or carrying a cup of coffee. By studying both humans and non-human primates, the researchers aim to uncover the neural mechanisms that enable precise movements. They will use advanced techniques to analyze brain activity while participants perform tasks in virtual environments, allowing for a detailed understanding of motor expertise. The findings could lead to improved methods for training and rehabilitation in motor skills.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include athletes looking to improve their performance and individuals undergoing rehabilitation for motor skill recovery.
Not a fit: Patients with severe cognitive impairments or those unable to perform basic motor tasks may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance training techniques for athletes and improve rehabilitation strategies for individuals recovering from motor impairments.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding motor control through similar approaches, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Northeastern University — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sternad, Dagmar — Northeastern University
- Study coordinator: Sternad, Dagmar
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.