Role of Two Medial Prefrontal Long-Range Recurrent Networks in Behavior Initiation and Inhibition
About This Grant
Abstract The medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) is critical for executive function, yet how its dorsal (dmPFC) and ventral (vmPFC) motor-projecting (MP) neurons coordinate behavioral initiation, inhibition, and cognitive flexibility remains poorly understood. This R21 leverages four translational behavioral paradigms (head-fixed Persistent Licking/Shock-Escape; freely moving FED3-based Reversal Learning/Stop-Signal), high-density neural recordings, circuit manipulations, and Brian2 spiking neural network modeling to test our central hypothesis: dmPFC MP neurons drive action initiation and adaptive switching, while vmPFC MP neurons suppress impulsivity and perseveration. In Aim 1a, we quantify behavior using kinematic analyses (jerk, velocity, z-scored) aligned with human executive dysfunction metrics (Action Latency [AL], Reversal Accuracy [RA], Perseveration Errors [PE], Stop-Signal Reaction Time [SSRT]), combined with optogenetic (stGtACR2/ChR2) and chemogenetic (PSAM/varenicline) perturbations. Aim 1b employs optotagging and population analyses (PCA, SVM, Total Spiking Probability Edges) to decode dmPFC/vmPFC MP dynamics across tasks, resolving specialized versus mixed functional roles. Aim 1c integrates these datasets into Brian2 spiking network models to predict neural-behavioral correlations, validated through cross-validation. Exploratory analyses will link murine kinematic signatures to human stop-signal/reversal learning metrics. By elucidating strain-specific (C57BL/6 vs. CD1) circuit mechanisms and delivering translatable biomarkers (AL, RA, PE, SSRT, kinematics), this work addresses a critical gap in understanding neuropsychiatric disorders like ADHD (impulsivity) and schizophrenia (perseveration). The study’s innovative combination of recurrent neural network theory, FED3-based assays, and New Approach Methodology (NAM)-compliant computational modeling pioneers high-risk, high-reward tools for circuit dissection, fully aligning with NIH’s 2025 priorities.
Grant Summary
Role of Two Medial Prefrontal Long-Range Recurrent Networks in Behavior Initiation and Inhibition is a NIMH - National Institute of Mental Health grant providing up to $397K for university, nonprofit, healthcare org. Applications are due 2028-06-09 (open). Check eligibility and apply with FindGrants.
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Up to $397K
2028-06-09
- 1Confirm your organization is eligible for Role of Two Medial Prefrontal Long-Range Recurrent Networks in Behavior Initiation and Inhibition from NIMH - National Institute of Mental Health, checking organization type, location, and any population or project requirements.
- 2Gather the required documents and information, including your organization details, project plan, and budget figures.
- 3Draft your application narrative and budget addressing the funder's priorities and review criteria. FindGrants can draft each section for you to review and edit.
- 4Review every section against the requirements checklist, then export a submission-ready application pack and submit it to NIMH - National Institute of Mental Health before the deadline.
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Role of Two Medial Prefrontal Long-Range Recurrent Networks in Behavior Initiation and Inhibition: Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Role of Two Medial Prefrontal Long-Range Recurrent Networks in Behavior Initiation and Inhibition?
Role of Two Medial Prefrontal Long-Range Recurrent Networks in Behavior Initiation and Inhibition is offered by NIMH - National Institute of Mental Health and is generally open to university, nonprofit, healthcare org. It is open to organizations nationwide unless the funder specifies otherwise. Review the specific eligibility terms before applying, since funders set their own requirements around organization type, location, and the population or project being served.
How much funding does the Role of Two Medial Prefrontal Long-Range Recurrent Networks in Behavior Initiation and Inhibition provide?
Role of Two Medial Prefrontal Long-Range Recurrent Networks in Behavior Initiation and Inhibition provides up to $397K per award from NIMH - National Institute of Mental Health. Actual award sizes depend on the scope of your project, available program funds, and the number of applicants, so build a budget that reflects realistic, allowable costs rather than the maximum figure.
When is the Role of Two Medial Prefrontal Long-Range Recurrent Networks in Behavior Initiation and Inhibition deadline?
Applications for Role of Two Medial Prefrontal Long-Range Recurrent Networks in Behavior Initiation and Inhibition are due 2028-06-09 (open). Because deadlines can change, verify the date with the funder, NIMH - National Institute of Mental Health, and give yourself enough time to prepare a complete, competitive application before the close date.
How do you apply for the Role of Two Medial Prefrontal Long-Range Recurrent Networks in Behavior Initiation and Inhibition?
To apply for Role of Two Medial Prefrontal Long-Range Recurrent Networks in Behavior Initiation and Inhibition, confirm your eligibility, gather the required documents, and prepare a narrative and budget that address the funder's priorities. FindGrants guides you step by step and can draft each section, then exports a submission-ready application pack for this grant from NIMH - National Institute of Mental Health.