Archives: Grants

Scott R. Pluta, Ph.D., Purdue University

Cortical and Subcortical Interactions Mediating Value-Based Sensory Processing

This project investigates how different parts of the brain work together to positively reinforce our attention while ignoring distractions or negative associations. In this proposal, we will study connections between the cerebral cortex and downstream brain structures to understand the contributi...

Gabrielle Pouchelon, Ph.D., Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

The Development of Attention-Associated Cholinergic Inputs to the Cortex

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental condition in children, characterized by difficulties with attention, hyperactivity, and often sleep disturbances. ADHD frequently occurs alongside other conditions, such as autism spectrum disorders, and its rising pre...

Iris Titos Vivancos, Ph.D., Northwestern University

Deciphering Muscle Regulation of Sleep

After exercising, sleep quality improves. We have all experienced a good night’s sleep after physical activity. This influence of exercise on behavior suggests that muscle signals can affect our brains. But how does the body tell the brain that it has been exercising so it can modify sleep ...

Anna L. Vlasits, Ph.D., University of Illinois, Chicago

The Role of Sensory Multiplexing in Guiding Natural Visual Behaviors

The visual system is constantly collecting information about the world around us. One part of the eye, called the retina, detects light from the world to send to the brain. The retina is multiple layers of neurons at the back of the eye. The neurons detect things like movement, color, contrast, a...

Vineet Augustine, Ph.D., University of California, San Diego

A New Model Organism for Neurocardiac Research

Our hearts and brains are closely connected, constantly influencing each other and affecting our overall health. Heart attacks, also called myocardial infarctions (MI), are still the leading cause of death despite years of research. In this proposal, I suggest a completely new way to study the co...

Jesse H. Goldberg, M.D., Ph.D., Cornell University

Dopaminergic Mechanisms of Social Cooperation and Observational Learning

Parenting is hard work. Humans and other animals have to care not only for themselves but also for needy young. Here we examine brain mechanisms of parenting in songbirds. Mammals feed their young through nursing, but songbirds must go out and find food and return to the nest and actively feed th...

Toshiro Hara, Ph.D., University of Michigan

Understanding Brain Tumor Invasion Using Single-Cell Spatial Analyses

Brain cancer is like an unwanted guest that sneaks into a healthy brain. Doctors can usually get rid of a lot of the cancer with surgery, but it gets really hard when the cancer mixes with normal brain areas. This sneaky move by the cancer is called invasion. The problem is that these tiny cancer...

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Be a part of the impact. Stay up-to-date with BRF news, including new programs, upcoming events, and updates on our brain research journey.