Identifying a key gene that regulates brain function and cognition.
Official title: A multidisciplinary approach identifying PDZ-RhoGEF (ARHGEF11) as a critical regulator of synapses and cognition
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11051883 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a gene called ARHGEF11 affects thinking and memory in the brain, which could help us understand cognitive issues in people with conditions like bipolar disorder and lead to new treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $324,777 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH133846-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11051883 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder or those experiencing cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cognitive impairments not related to the mechanisms being studied, such as those with purely structural brain injuries, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific gene, ARHGEF11, in regulating cognitive abilities and synaptic function in the brain. By examining how this gene interacts with microRNAs and its impact on learning and memory, the study aims to uncover the biological mechanisms behind cognitive impairments. The approach includes genetic analysis and biochemical methods to understand the gene's function in the cerebral cortex, particularly in relation to conditions like bipolar disorder. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for cognitive decline.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for improving cognitive function in individuals with cognitive impairments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the genetic basis of cognitive function, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cahill, Michael Edward — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Cahill, Michael Edward
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Cognition After War: A new {HCAP} for older adults and their children
A study will create a standardized cognitive test battery for older veterans and their midlife children to understand how early-life war exposure might influence dementia risk.
-
Cognition After War: A New, Harmonized Cognitive Check for Older Adults and Their Children
A new program will create a standardized set of cognitive tests and study how early-life war experiences might raise dementia risk in older adults and potentially affect their midlife children.
-
Cognition After War: A New, Harmonized Cognitive Test Series and ADRD Risk Study for Older Adults and Their Children
A study will create a harmonized set of cognitive tests and look at how early-life war exposure may relate to dementia risk in older adults and their midlife children.
-
Cognition after war: a new, harmonized brain-health check for older adults and their children
A new plan will create a harmonized set of cognitive tests and study how early-life war exposure might influence later dementia risk in older adults and their midlife children.
-
ROMA:Cog trial compares single vs multiple arterial grafts for brain health after CABG
A study in adults undergoing heart bypass surgery will test whether one arterial graft or multiple arterial grafts affect brain function and brain injury markers.
-
SynGAP1: New Ways It Shapes Synapses and Thinking
A Johns Hopkins team is studying how a protein called SynGAP1 helps brain connections and thinking, to understand autism-related changes.
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.