Exploring how certain signals can slow down cognitive aging in tiny worms.
Official title: Investigating neuropeptide signals that slow cognitive aging in C. elegans
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-10915446 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain signals in tiny worms might help keep their memory sharp as they get older, and it could lead to new ways to support brain health for everyone as they age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | August 7, 2023 |
| Project end | August 6, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31AG081095-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10915446 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals interested in the biological mechanisms of aging and cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no interest in aging research or those not affected by cognitive decline may not find direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of neuropeptide signals in slowing cognitive decline as organisms age, using the model organism C. elegans, a type of tiny worm. The study focuses on how these signals from a specific sensory neuron can enhance memory and learning abilities in both young and aged worms. By examining the mechanisms behind neuropeptide secretion and its effects on memory-related proteins, the research aims to uncover potential strategies to improve cognitive health as organisms age.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into enhancing memory function and cognitive health in aging populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using neuropeptide signaling to enhance memory in various organisms, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Leptich, Emily Jean — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Leptich, Emily Jean
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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.