Exploring how the lateral entorhinal cortex affects memory
Official title: Understanding output circuits of the lateral entorhinal cortex
Funded at University of California-Irvine · NIH-11133773 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific part of the brain, called the lateral entorhinal cortex, helps us remember things, especially in people with Alzheimer's disease, and it aims to find new ways to improve memory and treat dementia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project start | March 17, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $625,108 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH137156-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11133773 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those with other forms of dementia unrelated to the entorhinal cortex may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the lateral entorhinal cortex (LEC) and its role in memory formation and retrieval, particularly in the context of Alzheimer's disease. By using advanced techniques such as in vivo electrophysiology and optogenetics, the study aims to understand how different layers of neurons in the LEC contribute to associative memory. The research will involve experiments with transgenic mouse models to explore the influence of serotonin on memory processes. Ultimately, this work seeks to fill critical gaps in our understanding of memory circuits that could lead to new treatments for dementia.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating Alzheimer's disease and improving memory function in affected patients.
How similar studies have gone: 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
-
University of California-Irvine
Irvine, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Igarashi, Kei M — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Igarashi, Kei M
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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.