# Subcortico-Cortical Mechanisms of Sensorimotor Coordination, Integration, and Learning

> **NIH NIH R35** · MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · 2024 · $312,001

## Abstract

Abstract
A long-term goal of my research is to develop a comprehensive understanding of the computational principles,
anatomical substrates, and neural mechanisms of sensorimotor function. Our research is guided by the concept
of internal models, which provides a unified computational framework for investigating the neural basis of
sensorimotor coordination, integration, and learning. Currently, we do not have a comprehensive understanding
of how the brain instantiates internal models. Our broad research objective in to elucidate the functional role of
the ascending cerebello-thalamocortical (Cb-Th-Ctx) and basal ganglia-thalamocortical (Bg-Th-Ctx) pathways
in forming, updating, and using internal models. We will tackle this problem in the nonhuman primate model
using a multidisciplinary and cutting-edge approach that leverages (1) a sensorimotor task with suitable variants
for investigating the neural basis of sensorimotor coordination, integration, and learning, (2) large-scale multi-
region electrophysiology techniques to characterize neural signals with high spatiotemporal resolution across
entire subcortico-cortical pathways, and (3) a mathematically rigorous framework to integrate knowledge across
scales (cells, circuits, areas) and disciplines (systems, computational), and link computational concepts (e.g.,
internal models) to directly measurable neurobiological variables (e.g., firing rates). In the next decade, we will
use this integrative approach to gain a mechanistic understanding of how Cb-Th-Ctx and Bg-Th-Ctx pathways
establish internal models and support adaptive sensorimotor behaviors.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10887727
- **Project number:** 1R35NS137370-01
- **Recipient organization:** MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
- **Principal Investigator:** Mehrdad Jazayeri
- **Activity code:** R35 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $312,001
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2024-05-15 → 2032-04-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10887727

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10887727, Subcortico-Cortical Mechanisms of Sensorimotor Coordination, Integration, and Learning (1R35NS137370-01). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-26 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10887727. Licensed CC0.

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