Exploring how brain circuits help us remember associations.
Understanding neural circuits for associative memory in the lateral entorhinal cortex
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE · NIH-10659182
This study is looking at a part of the brain called the lateral entorhinal cortex to understand how it helps us remember things, which is especially important for people with memory problems like Alzheimer's disease, and it hopes to find new ways to help improve memory in the future.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (IRVINE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10659182 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the lateral entorhinal cortex (LEC) and its role in associative memory, which is crucial for understanding memory impairments seen in conditions like Alzheimer's disease. The study employs advanced techniques such as in vivo electrophysiology, optogenetics, and optical imaging to analyze how specific cell types in the LEC contribute to memory formation and retrieval. By using transgenic mouse models, researchers aim to uncover the cellular mechanisms that underlie associative learning, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies for dementia. The findings may provide insights into how memory circuits function and how they can be targeted for treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those with other unrelated cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve memory function in patients with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding memory circuits, but the specific focus on the lateral entorhinal cortex is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
IRVINE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE — IRVINE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: IGARASHI, KEI M — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE
- Study coordinator: IGARASHI, KEI M
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 below.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease