# Synaptic plasticity in sensory learning

> **NIH NIH R21** · CARNEGIE-MELLON UNIVERSITY · 2022 · $397,450

## Abstract

ABSTRACT
Experience-dependent plasticity is a canonical feature of the neocortex, observed in both sensory and
motor learning as well as more sophisticated cognitive operations such as working memory. The
remarkable conservation of cell types and synaptic connectivity across brain areas suggests that there
may be general principles by which neocortical circuits facilitate experience-dependent synaptic
modifications relevant for learning. We will test the hypothesis that exposure to novel and rewarded
sensory inputs initiates a common program of cell-type and input-specific plasticity across the cortical
column, irrespective of whether these changes are required for behavioral change. These collaborative
studies will address and resolve important controversies in the field of learning.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10598941
- **Project number:** 1R21NS127354-01A1
- **Recipient organization:** CARNEGIE-MELLON UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** ALISON L BARTH
- **Activity code:** R21 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2022
- **Award amount:** $397,450
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2022-09-15 → 2025-08-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10598941

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10598941, Synaptic plasticity in sensory learning (1R21NS127354-01A1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10598941. Licensed CC0.

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