How brain activity affects gene regulation and memory formation
Official title: Chromatin regulation of neuronal activity-induced enhancer priming and epigenetic memory
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-11072249 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how brain activity affects the way our genes work, especially in relation to behaviors like addiction, to help find new ways to treat brain disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $578,632 |
| NIH project number | 1R01NS137584-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11072249 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurodevelopmental or psychiatric disorders, particularly those affected by conditions related to synaptic plasticity and memory.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute brain injuries or those not experiencing any neurological or psychiatric conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how neuronal activity influences gene expression and the resulting long-term changes in brain function. It focuses on the role of chromatin regulators and signaling pathways in priming genes for faster responses to future stimuli, which may contribute to behavioral adaptations. The study aims to understand the mechanisms behind epigenetic memory, particularly in relation to conditions like addiction. By examining the interactions between chromatin remodeling complexes and activity-regulated genes, the research seeks to uncover insights that could lead to new therapeutic strategies for brain disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for brain disorders by enhancing our understanding of how memories and behaviors are formed at the molecular level.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of chromatin regulation in neuronal activity, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wu, Jiang — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Wu, Jiang
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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.