How dopamine affects memory formation in the brain
Official title: Dopaminergic Modulation of Hippocampal-Cortical Interactions in Learning
Funded at California Institute of Technology · NIH-11000381 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a brain chemical called dopamine helps us remember sounds, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding memory better, especially in relation to conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | California Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pasadena, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $506,794 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS135465-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11000381 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing early symptoms of memory disorders, particularly those related to Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or other severe cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of dopamine in the formation of auditory memories by examining how hippocampal inputs interact with cortical circuits. Using advanced imaging techniques, the study will track dopamine dynamics and neuronal responses in the auditory cortex as memories are formed. The researchers will also explore how manipulating dopamine levels and hippocampal inputs can influence learning and memory consolidation. This work aims to deepen our understanding of the brain's memory mechanisms and how they may be disrupted in conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing memory function in patients with memory disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding memory formation through similar approaches, indicating potential for significant advancements in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
California Institute of Technology
Pasadena, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Siapas, Athanassios — California Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Siapas, Athanassios
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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.