How cannabinoids affect memory and reward-seeking behavior
Official title: Endocannabinoid Control of Cholinergic Transmission and the Pursuit of Reward
Funded at University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-11102975 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a brain chemical called acetylcholine works with another type of receptor related to cannabis to affect memory and motivation, which could help us find new ways to treat Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $760,143 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH139635-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11102975 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing cognitive decline or have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are under 21 years old or do not have cognitive impairments related to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of acetylcholine in cognition and how it interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the brain, particularly in the hippocampus, which is crucial for memory. By studying both animal models and human subjects, the research aims to understand how these interactions influence working memory and the motivation to seek rewards. The approach includes examining the effects of cannabinoid type 1 receptors on cholinergic signaling and their implications for memory processes and behavior. This could lead to new insights into treating conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for enhancing memory and motivation in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of acetylcholine and cannabinoids in cognition, suggesting that this research builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Baltimore
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cheer, Joseph F — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Cheer, Joseph F
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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.