How astrocytes influence brain rhythms and memory
Official title: Regulation of Synaptic Rhythmicity by Astrocytic Clock
Funded at Texas A&m University · NIH-10914909 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells called astrocytes help keep our internal body clock on track and how this affects our ability to learn and remember things, especially for people who have trouble with their sleep patterns or are at risk for 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 | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $246,187 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS133047-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10914909 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing cognitive deficits related to circadian rhythm disturbances, such as those with Alzheimer's disease or other cognitive disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without cognitive impairments or those not affected by circadian rhythm disturbances may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of astrocytes, a type of brain cell, in regulating the body's internal clock and its impact on learning and memory. It aims to understand how disruptions in circadian rhythms, which can occur due to factors like shift work or travel, affect cognitive functions and contribute to conditions like Alzheimer's disease. By exploring the molecular mechanisms behind these processes, the research seeks to uncover how the timing of synaptic activity is influenced by the astrocytic clock. This could lead to new insights into improving cognitive health in individuals affected by circadian disruptions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating cognitive impairments associated with circadian disruptions.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on astrocytic clocks is novel, there is existing research indicating that circadian rhythms significantly impact cognitive functions, suggesting potential for success in this area.
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.