Federal Grant Award Summary

The University of Iowa received a $540,503 Project Grant from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) under the Extramural Research Programs in the Neurosciences and Neurological Disorders program (CFDA 93.853), effective May 7, 2026, with performance completion scheduled for February 28, 2031. This research project investigates cerebellar interactions with the anterior cingulate cortex and hippocampus during associative learning in rats. The research delivers fundamental neuroscience knowledge addressing a significant gap in understanding how the cerebellum—traditionally viewed as a motor structure—contributes to cognitive, emotional, and social functions through interactions with forebrain areas. The primary deliverables include systematic analysis of neural mechanisms underlying cerebellum-forebrain interactions using advanced multi-site electrophysiology and optogenetics techniques to record simultaneous spike and local field potential activity across multiple brain regions during trace conditioning paradigms.

The project employs sophisticated experimental approaches to test the hypothesis that the cerebellum receives inputs from forebrain areas and sends feedback signals to facilitate learning. Research outcomes will advance understanding of neural circuit dynamics and may inform future therapeutic approaches for neurological and psychiatric disorders involving these brain regions. As a major public research institution with extensive experience in federally-funded neuroscience research, the University of Iowa demonstrates the scientific and technical capacity required to deliver high-quality basic research outputs aligned with NINDS's mission to reduce the burden of neurological disease through fundamental brain and nervous system research.