Astrocyte Clock and Daily Rhythms in Brain Function and Memory
Official title: Regulation of Synaptic Rhythmicity by Astrocytic Clock
Funded at Texas A&m University · NIH-11617803 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project explores how the brain’s support cells (astrocytes) and their daily clock affect learning, memory, and cognitive health, especially in conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas A&m University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Station, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $47,771 |
| NIH project number | 3R01NS133047-04S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11617803 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
People with Alzheimer’s disease or circadian-related cognitive impairment may benefit from advances in how daily rhythms influence brain function.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without circadian or cognitive concerns may see limited direct benefit.
What this research studies
Researchers at Texas A&M will investigate how astrocytes’ internal clocks regulate synapses and memory-related processes across the day-night cycle. The work will look at how disruptions in circadian rhythms may contribute to cognitive problems and Alzheimer’s-related changes, using experiments in cells and animal models to understand the molecular pathways involved. Findings could point to new ways to preserve memory and cognition by stabilizing circadian timing. The study emphasizes relevance to human health through mechanisms that link sleep-wake patterns, brain signaling, and neurodegenerative risk.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could lead to strategies that support memory and cognitive function by aligning daily rhythms with brain activity.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work supports a link between circadian disruption and cognitive changes, but the astrocytic clock’s specific role in synaptic rhythmicity is still being defined.
Where this research is happening
-
Texas A&m University
College Station, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Farhy, Isabella — Texas A&m University
- Study coordinator: Farhy, Isabella
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.