How brain circuit problems cause hearing-timing and network changes in Alzheimer's
Circuit mechanisms underlying network disruption and temporal processing deficits in Alzheimer's
This work looks at how changes in brain circuits may cause early hearing-timing problems and loss of connections in Alzheimer's, aiming to point to earlier detection and targets for treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oregon NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Eugene, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11302685 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers use a widely used Alzheimer's mouse model (5XFAD) and advanced two-photon imaging to watch how neurons and brain networks change over time while testing auditory timing (gap detection) behaviors. They will map when hub neurons disappear, how modules and cortical areas disconnect, and how feedforward and top-down feedback signals are altered. The team combines behavioral tests, live imaging of neural activity, and computational network analysis to link circuit changes to the hearing-timing deficit. Results are intended to connect a measurable early biomarker (gap detection problems) with specific circuit mechanisms that could guide later human studies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with early memory symptoms or mild cognitive impairment and those showing subtle hearing or timing difficulties would be the most relevant group for related follow-up studies.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or without auditory timing problems are unlikely to gain direct short-term benefit from this laboratory-based mouse research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could reveal early brain-circuit signs of Alzheimer's and suggest new targets or measures for earlier diagnosis or therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal work has linked network disruption to Alzheimer's symptoms, but applying live circuit imaging to auditory gap detection and detailed hub-neuron loss is a newer, more focused approach.
Where this research is happening
Eugene, United States
- University of Oregon — Eugene, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wehr, Michael — University of Oregon
- Study coordinator: Wehr, Michael
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 below.