Exploring how testosterone affects memory in aging men through brain factors.
Official title: Determining the roles of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neuronal synchrony in the memory-enhancing effects of testosterone in the aging male brain.
Funded at Middlebury College · NIH-10793888 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how testosterone affects memory in older men by using castrated male rats to see how it influences their ability to remember things, which could help us find new ways to support memory in aging guys.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Middlebury College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Middlebury, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $387,201 |
| NIH project number | 1R15AG078835-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10793888 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research are older men experiencing cognitive decline or related conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 65 or do not have cognitive decline may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between testosterone levels and memory function in aging males, particularly focusing on how testosterone influences spatial memory. Using an animal model of castrated male rats, the study aims to understand the physiological mechanisms behind testosterone's effects on memory and learning strategies. The research will assess the roles of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neuronal synchrony in these processes, providing insights that could inform future treatments for cognitive decline in older men.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches for improving memory and cognitive function in aging men.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been mixed results in past studies on testosterone therapy for cognitive benefits, this research aims to explore novel mechanisms that have not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Middlebury College
Middlebury, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Spritzer, Mark D. — Middlebury College
- Study coordinator: Spritzer, Mark D.
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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.