How noradrenergic activity affects distractibility in older adults
The effects of noradrenergic activity on age-related distractibility
This study is looking at how changes in a part of the brain that helps with attention might affect how easily older adults get distracted, and it will compare these effects with younger adults to see how age influences focus and thinking skills.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10954723 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between noradrenergic activity and cognitive performance in older adults, focusing on how changes in the locus coeruleus, the brain's primary source of noradrenaline, influence distractibility. By utilizing neuroimaging and behavioral tasks, the study aims to understand whether increased or decreased noradrenergic activity affects attentional control and cognitive impairments associated with aging. The research will involve both older and younger adults to compare the effects of noradrenergic modulation on cognitive behavior across age groups.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults experiencing cognitive decline as well as younger adults for comparative analysis.
Not a fit: Patients with severe cognitive impairments or those with neurodegenerative diseases may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preserving cognitive function and delaying neurodegenerative diseases in older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of noradrenergic activity in cognitive processes, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, UNITED STATES
- University of Southern California — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kim, Andy Jeesu — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Kim, Andy Jeesu
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.